ALL opioids are bad for breathing.  The higher the dose, the worse it gets.  Lung/breathing problems can develop independently and if you're on patches chances are you were on something before that, long term.  You CAN get Lidocaine patches which might be better if breathing is an issue.  But doctors tend to look at the very last thing you were prescribed and move you to the next without looking at your general health or even asking questions.  I've been on the patches four months and I take contraindacatory medications and have another condition which means I shouldn't use them.  This WAS taken into account though, as the reason I'm on them is that I can't use Amitryptiline.  I'm being 'monitored' for side effects...