Fentanyl (Systemic)
Brand Names : Actiq
CategoryDescriptionFentanyl (FEN-ta-nil)
belongs to the group of medicines called narcotic analgesics (nar-KOT-ik an-al-GEE-ziks).
Narcotic analgesics are used to relieve pain. The transmucosal form of fentanyl
is used to treat breakthrough cancer pain. Breakthrough episodes of cancer
pain are the flares of pain which �breakthrough� the medication
used to control the persistent pain. Transmucosal fentanyl is only used in
patients who are already taking narcotic analgesics.
Fentanyl acts in the central nervous system (CNS) to relieve pain. Some
of its side effects are also caused by actions in the CNS. When a narcotic
is used for a long time, it may become habit-forming (causing mental or physical
dependence). However, people who have continuing pain should not let the
fear of dependence keep them from using narcotics to relieve their pain.
Mental dependence (addiction) is not likely to occur when narcotics are used
for this purpose. Physical dependence may lead to withdrawal side effects
if treatment is stopped suddenly. However, severe withdrawal side effects
can usually be prevented by reducing the dose gradually over a period of time
before treatment is stopped completely. Your health care professional will
take this into consideration when deciding on the amount of transmucosal fentanyl
you should receive.
This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the
following dosage form(s):
Brand NamesSome commonly used brand names are:
In the U.S. -
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