Fentanyl (Transdermal Route)

Free

E-Newsletters

Subscribe to receive the latest updates on health topics. About our newsletters

  • Housecall
  • Alzheimer's caregiving
  • Living with cancer

Fentanyl (Transdermal Route)

Drug Information provided by: Micromedex

US Brand Names

  • Duragesic

Description

Fentanyl belongs to the group of medicines called narcotic analgesics. Narcotic analgesics are used to relieve pain. The transdermal system (skin patch) form of fentanyl is used to treat chronic pain (pain that continues for a long time).

Fentanyl acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to relieve pain. Some of its side effects are also caused by actions in the CNS.

When a narcotic medicine 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 gradually reducing the dose over a period of time before treatment is stopped. completely.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

  • Patch, Extended Release
  • Patch, Device Assisted
Before Using
DR601815 Portions of this document last updated: Jan. 1, 2012

Source: Drug Information provided by: Micromedex

Copyright © 2012 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

Advertisement


Text Size: smaller largerlarger