WARNING

Fentora is a medication containing fentanyl, a potent opioid pain reliever. While it can be effective for managing severe pain, there are significant risks associated with its use:

• Addiction: Fentanyl, like other opioids, has a high potential for addiction. Continued use can lead to physical dependence, where the body requires the drug to function normally.
• Overdose: Fentanyl is much stronger than other opioids like morphine or oxycodone. Taking too much Fentora can result in respiratory depression, coma, or even death.
• Respiratory Depression: Fentanyl can slow down breathing, particularly in higher doses or when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines. This can be life-threatening.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Stopping Fentora suddenly after prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, and anxiety.
• Tolerance: Over time, individuals may develop a tolerance to Fentora, requiring higher doses to achieve the same level of pain relief. This can increase the risk of overdose and other adverse effects.
• Misuse and Abuse: Fentora is sometimes abused for its euphoric effects. Crushing and snorting the medication or injecting it can significantly increase the risk of overdose and other complications.
• Interactions: Fentora can interact with other medications, particularly other central nervous system depressants, leading to dangerous side effects or reduced effectiveness.
• Respiratory Conditions: Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may be at higher risk of respiratory depression when taking Fentora.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Fentora should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby.
• Accidental Exposure: Fentora is a potent medication, and accidental exposure, especially to children or pets, can lead to overdose and death. It should be stored securely and kept out of reach of others.

It’s crucial for individuals prescribed Fentora to use it exactly as directed by their healthcare provider and to be aware of the signs of overdose or other adverse effects. Additionally, regular communication with healthcare providers can help manage risks and ensure safe use.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Fentora is a prescription medication primarily used to manage breakthrough pain in cancer patients who are already receiving opioid therapy for chronic pain. Breakthrough pain refers to sudden, intense flares of pain that occur despite around-the-clock opioid treatment.

Fentora contains the active ingredient fentanyl, which is a potent opioid pain reliever. It is available in the form of a buccal tablet, meaning it is designed to dissolve when placed between the cheek and gum, allowing for rapid absorption into the bloodstream.

How should this medicine be used?

Fentora is formulated as a buccal tablet, meaning it is placed between the cheek and gum, where it dissolves and releases the medication. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Here’s a general guide on how Fentora is commonly used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Fentora is individualized based on factors such as the patient’s current opioid regimen, their response to opioids, and the severity of breakthrough pain episodes. Healthcare providers typically start with a low dose and adjust it as needed.
• Administration: Fentora tablets should be placed in the mouth between the cheek and gum, where it will dissolve over 15-30 minutes. It’s essential not to chew or swallow the tablet whole, as this can affect its effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects.
• Frequency: Fentora is typically used on an as-needed basis for managing breakthrough pain episodes. Patients should wait at least 4 hours before using another dose, and no more than two doses should be used for a single episode of breakthrough pain.
• Storage: Fentora should be stored securely out of reach of children and pets, as accidental ingestion can be fatal. It should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
• Safety: It’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage and not to exceed it. Combining Fentora with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other opioids can increase the risk of respiratory depression and other adverse effects.
• Monitoring: Patients using Fentora should be regularly monitored by their healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the medication, manage side effects, and adjust the dosage as needed.

It’s crucial for patients to understand how to use Fentora safely and to communicate with their healthcare provider about any concerns or changes in their condition. Improper use of Fentora can lead to serious side effects, including overdose and death.

Other uses for this medicine

Some off-label uses of Fentora may include:

• Chronic Pain: In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe Fentora off-label for managing severe chronic pain in patients who are opioid-tolerant and have not responded well to other pain management strategies.
• Non-Cancer Pain: While Fentora is primarily indicated for breakthrough cancer pain, it may be used off-label for managing severe pain associated with non-cancer conditions in certain situations.
• Procedural Pain: Fentora may be used off-label for managing acute procedural pain in certain medical procedures or interventions.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using Fentora, here are some important considerations:

• Patient Education: Patients should receive thorough education on how to use Fentora properly, including dosing instructions, administration technique, and safety precautions.
• Dosage Adjustment: Fentora dosages should be individualized based on factors such as the patient’s current opioid regimen, response to opioids, and the severity of breakthrough pain episodes.
• Safety Precautions: Patients should be informed about the risks associated with Fentora, including the potential for addiction, respiratory depression, overdose, and other adverse effects. They should also be advised not to drive or operate machinery while using Fentora, as it may impair cognitive and motor functions.
• Monitoring: Patients using Fentora should be regularly monitored by their healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the medication, manage side effects, and adjust the dosage as needed.
• Storage and Disposal: Fentora should be stored securely out of reach of children and pets, and any unused or expired medication should be properly disposed of according to local regulations.
• Interaction Precautions: Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products they are taking, as Fentora may interact with other drugs, particularly other central nervous system depressants, leading to dangerous side effects or reduced effectiveness.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Fentora should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should discuss the risks and benefits of Fentora with their healthcare provider.

By following these precautions and guidelines, patients can use Fentora safely and effectively under the guidance of their healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Fentora. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated while using the medication to support overall health and well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Fentora, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

If you have any concerns or questions about your medication schedule or missed doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fentora (fentanyl), like other opioids, can cause a range of side effects, some of which can be severe. It’s essential to be aware of these potential side effects and to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms. Common side effects of Fentora may include:

• Nausea and vomiting: Gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and vomiting, is a common side effect of opioids like Fentora.
• Constipation: Opioids can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation. It’s important to stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet with fiber to help alleviate this side effect.
• Drowsiness and dizziness: Fentora can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and sedation, which may impair your ability to perform tasks requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking Fentora.
• Fatigue: Feelings of tiredness or fatigue may occur as a side effect of Fentora.
• Dry mouth: Opioids can reduce saliva production, leading to a dry mouth sensation.
• Itching: Some people may experience itching or pruritus while taking Fentora.
• Sweating: Excessive sweating, particularly night sweats, can occur as a side effect of opioids.
• Respiratory depression: This is a potentially serious side effect of opioids like Fentora, characterized by slowed or shallow breathing. It requires immediate medical attention.
• Hypotension: Fentora can cause low blood pressure in some individuals, leading to symptoms such as lightheadedness or fainting.
• Confusion: Some individuals may experience confusion or disorientation while taking Fentora.
• Urinary retention: Difficulty urinating or urinary retention can occur as a side effect of opioids.
• Withdrawal symptoms: If Fentora is stopped suddenly after prolonged use, withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, and anxiety may occur.

It’s essential to report any side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Remember that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual experiences may vary. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Fentora.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Fentora:

• Storage: Store Fentora securely out of reach of children and pets in a locked cabinet or other secure location. Keep it at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Fentora tablets properly according to local regulations. Do not flush them down the toilet or throw them in the trash where they can be easily accessed by others. Many communities have medication take-back programs or provide guidance on safe disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

In Case of Emergency/Overdose of Fentora:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose of Fentora or experience symptoms such as severe drowsiness, difficulty breathing, pinpoint pupils, unconsciousness, or extreme lethargy, seek emergency medical help immediately by calling your local emergency number or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Naloxone Administration: Naloxone is a medication that can reverse opioid overdose by blocking the effects of opioids on the body. If available, naloxone should be administered promptly in the event of a Fentora overdose while waiting for emergency medical assistance.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid Alcohol and CNS Depressants: Do not consume alcohol or use other central nervous system (CNS) depressants while taking Fentora, as it can increase the risk of respiratory depression and other adverse effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as Fentora may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby. Your healthcare provider will weigh the risks and benefits of Fentora use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Fentora may impair cognitive and motor functions, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider of any medical conditions you have, including respiratory disorders, liver or kidney disease, or a history of substance abuse, as these may affect the safety and efficacy of Fentora.
• Medication Interactions: Tell your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Fentora may interact with other drugs, leading to dangerous side effects or reduced effectiveness.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor you regularly while taking Fentora to assess its effectiveness, manage side effects, and adjust the dosage as needed.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Fentora to ensure safe and effective treatment. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.