How is Fentanyl dosed?
The dosing information for fentanyl buccal mucosa route, oromucosal route, and sublingual route is as follows: For cancer pain (buccal dosage form, film): Adults: At first, one 200 microgram (mcg) film for each pain episode. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the maximum number of pain episodes that can be treated each day is 4.
Please note that appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of fentanyl in children younger than 18 years of age for some brands and in children younger than 16 years of age for another brand. Safety and efficacy have not been established in these age groups. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of narcotic analgesics and may require caution and an adjustment in the dose. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on dosing.
What is the dosage form of Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is available in various dosage forms to treat severe pain in cancer patients. The common dosage forms include:
- Buccal dosage form (film): This form is administered by placing the film between the cheek and gum or under the tongue.
- Buccal dosage form (tablets): The tablets are placed between the cheek and gum or under the tongue.
- Transmucosal dosage form (lozenges): These lozenges are placed between the cheek and gum or under the tongue.
- Sublingual spray: The medicine is sprayed under the tongue and held there for a specific duration before swallowing.
It is essential to follow your doctor's orders or the instructions on the label to ensure the appropriate dosage and frequency of administration.
How is Fentanyl administered?
Fentanyl can be administered through buccal mucosa route, oromucosal route, or sublingual route. The specific method of administration depends on the brand and form of the medication.
For Subsys sublingual spray, the medicine is sprayed under the tongue and held there for 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing.
For Abstra tablets, Actiq lozenges, and Fentora buccal tablets, the medication is placed in the mouth between the cheek and gum, where it dissolves. For Actiq lozenges, the medication should be sucked for 15 minutes before swallowing.
For Onsolis buccal film, the film is placed between the upper cheek and gum, above a back molar, until it dissolves.
It is important to follow your doctor's orders or the instructions on the medication label when administering fentanyl. Always keep the medicine in the original package and handle it properly to avoid damage.
What are common precautions when taking Fentanyl?
Common precautions when taking fentanyl buccal mucosa route, oromucosal route, or sublingual route include:
- Avoiding alcohol or other central nervous system depressants while using fentanyl, as these can potentiate the sedative effects and increase the risk of respiratory depression.
- Not using fentanyl for minor aches and pains or after surgery or injuries, as it is only indicated for severe pain in cancer patients.
- Informing the doctor if you have a history of drug abuse or addiction, as fentanyl has a high potential for misuse and dependence.
- Not using fentanyl if you have taken a monoamine oxidase (MAOI) inhibitor in the past 2 weeks, as this combination can cause serious and potentially life-threatening side effects.