Fentora
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: Fentora
Description
Fentora: Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Fentora is a potent opioid pain medication prescribed for the treatment of breakthrough cancer pain. The drug is available in the form of a sublingual tablet that is placed under the tongue. It is marketed by Cephalon Inc. and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006. Uses of Fentora Fentora is primarily prescribed for the management of breakthrough cancer pain in patients who are already taking opioids for their persistent cancer pain. Breakthrough pain is characterized by sudden, intense episodes of pain that occur in between regular doses of pain medication. Fentora is not intended for the treatment of common headaches, arthritis, and other mild or moderate pain conditions. Dosage of Fentora Fentora is a potent opioid pain medication and should be used with caution. The dosage should be individualized and carefully titrated according to the patient's response and tolerance. The initial recommended dose of Fentora is 100 mcg placed under the tongue. The dose may be adjusted as needed, up to a maximum of 800 mcg. The tablets should not be swallowed whole or chewed, as this can lead to overdose and death. Demographic for Fentora Fentora is intended for use in adults aged 18 years and older who are already receiving and tolerant to opioid therapy for their persistent cancer pain. The drug is not recommended for use in pediatric patients or in patients with non-cancer pain. Side Effects of Fentora Like all opioids, Fentora has the potential to cause serious side effects, including respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening. Other potential side effects include: - Dizziness - Sedation - Nausea - Vomiting - Constipation - Headache - Dry mouth - Sweating - Itching - Rash Drug Interactions with Fentora Fentora should not be used with other opioids, benzodiazepines, or other central nervous system depressants, as this can increase the risk of respiratory depression and death. Fentora can also interact with certain medications, such as: - Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) - Muscle relaxants - Sedatives - Antipsychotics - Alcohol - Certain antibiotics and antifungals Generic Options for Fentora Currently, there are no generic versions of Fentora available on the market. However, there are other fentanyl-based medications that are FDA-approved for the treatment of breakthrough cancer pain, such as Abstral and Lazanda. In conclusion, Fentora is a potent opioid pain medication prescribed for the management of breakthrough cancer pain in patients who are already receiving and tolerant to opioid therapy. The dosage should be carefully titrated according to the patient's response and tolerance, and the drug should be used with caution due to the potential for serious side effects and drug interactions. There are no generic versions of Fentora available on the market, but there are other FDA-approved fentanyl-based medications for the treatment of breakthrough cancer pain. Patients should only take Fentora under the close supervision of a healthcare provider and should report any adverse effects immediately.
Faq for Fentora
Fentora is the brand name for fentanyl citrate, a prescription medication used to manage breakthrough pain in cancer patients who are already on round-the-clock opioid therapy.
Fentora belongs to the class of medications called opioids. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing the pain signals sent to the body.
Fentora is specifically indicated for the treatment of breakthrough pain in cancer patients, aged 18 years and older, who are already receiving and are tolerant to opioid therapy for their underlying persistent cancer pain.
Fentora is a buccal tablet that is placed between the upper cheek and gum. It is meant to dissolve slowly and is not to be chewed, swallowed, or taken with liquids.
Common side effects of Fentora may include nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, vomiting, and headache. It may also cause serious side effects like respiratory depression, dependency, and addiction.
No, Fentora is specifically approved for cancer patients with breakthrough pain and should not be used for non-cancer-related pain.
Fentora should be avoided during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the unborn baby. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk and cause serious side effects in the nursing infant.
The initial dosage of Fentora is based on the patient's previous opioid usage. Healthcare professionals will titrate the dose to find an effective and safe dose for each individual patient.
Yes, like other opioids, Fentora carries a risk of abuse and misuse. It is a powerful medication that should only be used under close supervision of healthcare professionals.
Yes, Fentora has a potential for addiction, abuse, and misuse. Regular use of Fentora can lead to physical and psychological dependence. It should be used only as directed by a healthcare professional.