Fentanyl??

[luvin my dogs]

So today was day 6 I think from the second surgery. And after the first surgery I took the patch off myself. In less than 30 minutes she was very distressed, crazy breathing, rapid and raspy, accelerated heart beat... Called the vet.. they said pain response. Took her in, second patch applied. 10 minutes back to a happy dog. That patch stayed on till the second surgery.. which brings us to today.
She has been doing very well for about 2 days. Sleeping, eating, drinking, potty... all of it. I am feeling like we will get through this this time. BUT I refused to take the patch of myself. So I call the clinic and take her in, they are aware of my concern after the first patch experience. So it comes off. She is happy, wagging tail, too excited for every one's comfort level. So we leave. I got in my car maybe 15 minutes after the patch came off. And boom, she's a totally different dog. Quiet, miserable, looking for her bed and has barely lifted her head since. I gave her some pain killer when we got home, as I am expecting some pain response, but this is drastic!
Is this "normal" for fentanyl? I know it's narcotic, opiate, but dang this stuff is powerful!

[weezyNollie]

Fentanyl is VERY quick acting, but I am surprised that the patch was even working that well to tell a difference. Normally the patches only work so-so. Unfortunately there isn't a way to wean off of a fentanyl patch.

I would keep up with all your other medications -- the tramadol, gabapentin, Rimadyl, etc. She will adjust. Just gotta hang in there.

[luvin my dogs]

Apparently so.. Thanks!
It's interesting that whatever I have found researching the drug, it seems like 72 hours is about what it is supposed to be useful for.. but these reactions are 5-6 days after application. Odd?