Fentora
Generic Name: Fentanyl
What is Fentora?
Fentora is an opioid (narcotic) analgesic used to manage breakthrough cancer pain (sudden painful episodes) in adults who are already receiving, and are tolerant to, around-the-clock opioid therapy. Fentora is a controlled substance with abuse potential.What is the most important information I should know about Fentora?
Fentora has high potential for abuse, and should not be used in opioid non-tolerant patients. Fentora is not recommended for temporary or post-operative pain, such as pain from a medical or dental procedure.Fentora comes in two different forms, tablets and lozenges. Take Fentora exactly as indicated by your doctor and never switch or substitute these products without your doctor's approval.
Keep Fentora out of the reach of children. This drug contains medicine in amounts that could be fatal to children and babies.
Who should not take Fentora?
Do not take Fentora to control temporary pain from injuries, surgery, and headaches, including migraines.Do not take Fentora if you have not previously been taking another opioid drug; it may cause life-threatening breathing problems. Also, you should not take Fentora if you are allergic to it or to any of its ingredients.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Fentora?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Fentora. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are not opioid-tolerant, if you are taking medications known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs, a class of drugs used to treat depression, psychiatric and emotional disorders, and Parkinson's disease), other pain medications, antidepressants, sleeping pills, anxiety medications, antihistamines, or tranquilizers. Tell your doctor if you have had trouble breathing or lung problems such as asthma, kidney or liver problems, a head or brain injury, seizures, heart problems, mental problems including depression or hallucinations, and past or present alcoholism or drug abuse/addiction. Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The usual starting dose is 100 micrograms (mcg). Use 1 dose of Fentora for an episode of breakthrough cancer pain. If your breakthrough cancer pain is not relieved after 30 minutes, use only 1 more dose of Fentora at this time. Wait at least four more hours before using Fentora again for another episode of breakthrough cancer pain.
How should I take Fentora?
The Fentora tablet should be placed between your cheek and gum and left to disintegrate for 14-25 minutes. After 30 minutes, any remaining pieces of the tablet could be swallowed with a glass of water. Do not split, suck, chew, or swallow the tablet whole.Do not open the blister pack until ready to use.
Tell your doctor if you have more than four episodes of breakthrough cancer pain per day. While on Fentora you must continue to take your regularly used around-the-clock opioid medication.
What should I avoid while taking Fentora?
Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how Fentora affects you. Fentora can make you sleepy. Ask your doctor when it is okay to do these activities.Do not drink alcohol while using Fentora as it may increase your risk of getting dangerous side effects.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Fentora?
If Fentora is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Fentora with the following: amprenavir, aprepitant, diltiazem, erythromycin, fluconazole, fosamprenavir, grapefruit juice, or verapamil.What are the possible side effects of Fentora?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, sleepiness, vomiting, constipation
Can I receive Fentora if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do not take Fentora if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. This drug may pass into your breast milk, causing breathing problems in your baby.What should I do if I miss a dose of Fentora?
Fentora is not a regularly scheduled medicine. It should only be used for breakthrough cancer pain. Remember to continue taking your regularly used around-the-clock opioid medicine and take Fentora only when you experience an episode of breakthrough pain.How should I store Fentora?
Store Fentora at room temperature until ready to use. Do not remove Fentora from its blister packaging for storage. Always keep Fentora out of reach of children and in a secure place to protect from theft.
I'm Shereen A. Gharbia, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
