Applying a steroid spray (Nasacort AQ, etc) onto the skin before applying a topical patch helps decrease skin irritation.

  Patients sometimes complain of skin redness or itching after applying Duragesic and other patches.

  Some experts recommend applying a corticosteroid nasal spray or inhaler to the site BEFORE applying the patch to prevent rashes.

  The sprays are used because of concerns that the emollients in steroid creams and ointments will affect patch adhesion. Plus the metered-dose delivery allows for easy application.

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