"i have been on the duragesic patches 100mcg every 2 days a little over 3 years for chronic pain due to a failed lumbar fusion surgery. before going on the patch i was taking 10-15 loritab&#039;s a day , which tore my gastrointestinal system apart.  these patches were a godsend. with norco as a break through med.  i usually only have to take if i get a little over active . the only reason i didn&#039;t rate a 10 was a few side effects sweats and constipation being the worse. gains beat that easy."