The Fentanyl is a narcotic that is used against episodes sudden pain in adult patients (aged 18 years) who have a cancer , taking regularly already have another narcotic to control the painful symptoms of cancer and that they are insensitive to ‘ effect of other narcotics.
How does the Fentanyl work?
Fentanyl is a narcotic: it works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain.
How is the Fentanile administered?
Fentanyl can be taken orally or transdermally, through the skin. Possible formulations include tablets, tablets to be dissolved in the mouth or under the tongue and transdermal patches.
In general, the doctor prescribes a low dose of Fentanyl and then gradually increases it until the effective one is identified.
Side effects of Fentanyl
Possible side effects of Fentanyl include:
- drowsiness
- nausea
- stomach ache
- He retched
- diarrhea
- flatulence
- heartburn
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- difficulty urinating
- weakness
- headache
- vision problems
- anxiety
- depression
- visual or acoustic hallucinations
- strange thoughts or dreams
- insomnia
- dry mouth
- increased sweating
- sudden redness of the face, neck or chest
- uncontrollable tremors
- backache
- chest pain
- pain, blistering or irritation in the mouth
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles or calves
It is good to contact a doctor immediately in case of:
- changes in heart rhythm
- convulsions
- urticaria
- rashes
- itch
Contraindications and warnings
Fentanyl should not be taken more than four times a day, because it can be addictive : it is necessary to scrupulously follow the dosage prescribed by the doctor and never stop taking it of your own free will, under penalty of the possible onset of the symptoms of a real abstinence. Also, when taking Fentanyl, the usual pain relievers should not be stopped.
The drug may impair driving skills and operate dangerous machinery. In addition, it can cause dangerous dizziness and fainting when standing up or lying down.
The side effects of Fentanyl can be aggravated by alcohol. In general, adequate nutrition helps to reduce unwanted reactions of the body to taking the medicine, especially constipation.
Before taking Fentanyl it is good to inform your doctor:
- any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or any other drugs
- of the medicines, phytotherapy and supplements taken, citing in particular other pain relievers, antihistamines, barbiturates, buprenorphine, butorphanol, carbamazepine, efavirenz, psychotropic drugs, antiemetics, modafinil, steroids (if taken orally), oxcarbazepine, pentazocine, phenazone , rifabutin, rifampin, sedatives, sleeping medications, tranquilizers and St. John’s wort. It is also necessary to inform the doctor where MAO inhibitors have been stopped for less than two weeks.
- if you suffer (or have suffered) from head injuries, brain tumors, strokes or any condition that may increase intracranial pressure, seizures, heart, kidney, respiratory or liver problems, hypotension, psychiatric illness or hallucinations
- if you have used drugs or if you have abused drugs or alcohol
- if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
It is also advisable to inform surgeons and dentists of any ongoing Fentanyl therapy.
