Fentanyl Overview

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is usually administered to cancer patients for breakout pain that is moderate to severe in nature. This drug is 80 times more potent than morphine and should not be used by people who have not been treated with opiate painkillers in the past as it can be overwhelming to the uninitiated system.

Fentanyl is intended to be taken orally and will dissolve between the gums and cheek. Do not chew, break or swallow this medication whole. Because of its potent effects, Fentanyl is highly addictive and is commonly abused. Keep your medication out of the hands of those who may misuse this drug, and do not give it away or use it for any other reason than that for which it was prescribed.

What Drug Interactions Should I Avoid When Taking Fentanyl?

Tell your doctor about any and all medications that you will be taking while on Fentanyl as it is possible to have a serious drug interaction with any number of prescriptions and nonprescription drugs while taking this drug. For example, you should not take a MAO inhibitor for two weeks before or after Fentanyl use. It is especially important that you tell your doctor if you are taking antihistamines, antispasmodics, blood pressure medicines, or drugs that affect liver enzymes.

Do not begin or stop taking any medication while you are on Fentanyl. Speak to your physician or pharmacist before changing your dose. Fentanyl will cause drowsiness and should be used with caution especially when other sedation-type medications are being used.

This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including amylase and lipase levels), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors are aware of the fact that you are taking Fentanyl before you undergo any medical tests or procedures.

What are the Side Effects of Fentanyl?

The majority of patients who use Fentanyl do not experience serious side effects. However, if you find that you are experiencing a negative reaction while using the drug including fainting, breathing abnormally or signs of an infection, tell your doctor immediately. Standard side effects will include headache, constipation, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness and lightheadedness. If you experience chronic constipation, eating a diet with fiber included may help minimize your condition, but do not select a laxative without your physician's approval. It is imperative to contact your doctor at once if your side effects worsen or become overwhelming.

What Else Should I Know When Taking Fentanyl?

Do not take Fentanyl if you think you may be allergic to it or are allergic to other narcotic prescriptions. If you have or have experienced any mouth sores, gallbladder disease, severe respiratory depression, bowel disease, kidney disease, brain disorders, liver disease, or heart problems in the past then tell your doctor because Fentanyl use may not benefit you. Alcohol is known to increase some side effects of Fentanyl and is strongly advised against. This drug is not to be administered to patients requiring pain relief from post operative surgeries or for general acute pain. Fentanyl is provided by different companies and in different strengths, so you should not switch brands without your doctor’s approval.

How Does Meditox Treat Fentanyl Addiction?

Despite its beneficial intent, Fentanyl addiction can ruin lives and lead to a lethal overdose. At Meditox, we treat Fentanyl addiction with a straight forward approach that is not only comprehensive but compassionate. Our team is made up of doctors and nurses who are all specialists in drug abuse and addiction treatment. We have the expertise and medication to help you stop using Fentanyl and start rebuilding your life. Contact our office today to learn more about our individualized outpatient programs. Are you ready to regain your healthy and become drug-free? Call Meditox now.

If you feel that Meditox might be the right solution for you or your loved one, please call us for a toll-free and private consultation:

Additional Resources

Wikipedia: Fentanyl Information
Drugs.com: Fentanyl Information

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