 |
Generic Name: Fentanil, Fentanyl
Brand Name(s): DURAGESIC®, Actiq®
IUPAC: N-phenyl-N-[1-(2-phenylethyl)piperidin-4-yl]propanamide
FDA Approval: yes
Manufacturer Link
|
Usage: Fentanyl is an opiate used in low doses to relieve pain. Fentanyl used for pain relief can be administered as a patch placed on the skin or as an oral lozenge. Dosage depends on the form of fentanyl administered: DURAGESIC®,. patches applied normally every 72 hours and Actiq®, (fentanyl citrate) oral lozenges normally used several times a day.
(1)(2)Mechanism: Fentanyl is believed to bind to the mu opioid receptor.
Side Effects: Side effects include confusion, sedation (drowsiness), nausea and vomiting, sweating, change in mood, constipation and dry mouth. Fentanyl can cause respiratory depression. This may result in a potentially dangerous slowing of a patient's breathing rate. Fentanyl can be habit-forming. Psychological and physiological withdrawal symptoms can occur if the patient becomes drug-dependent. With prolonged use, tolerance may also become a problem, requiring higher dosages to achieve pain relief. Alcohol can intensify some of the mental and emotional side effects of fentanyl, such as drowsiness and changes in mood. Patients should avoid alcohol consumption while taking fentanyl.
Print
Email Page
