J&J unit recalls some Duragesic pain patches in U.S.

WASHINGTON, Feb 12 (Reuters) - A unit of drug and consumer giant Johnson & Johnson (JNJ.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Tuesday said it was recalling certain strengths of their Duragesic pain patches, which have the potential to expose patients to a dangerous gel inside.

Johnson & Johnson's Ortho-McNeil-Janssen unit is recalling all lots of its 25 microgram per hour strength patch of Duragesic, in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The recalled patches may have an opening which could result in release of the gel made of the drug fentanyl inside.

Exposure to fentanyl directly can cause serious harm, including breathing problems and overdose, which can be fatal, the company said.

All the recalled patches have an expiration date on or before Dec. 2009. Some patches in Canada are also being recalled.

(Reporting by Kim Dixon)