Can fentanyl be absorbed through the skin?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only in liquid form
• D. Only with a patch

Answer: (B)

Fentanyl can be absorbed through the skin because it is highly lipophilic and readily crosses the skin barrier. The transdermal patch is designed to deliver fentanyl through the skin into the bloodstream over time, which is its intended medical use. However, dermal absorption can also occur with exposure to fentanyl powder or liquid if there is skin contact, especially without protective gloves, making accidental overdose a real risk. So skin absorption is possible, not limited to patches and not restricted to liquid form alone.