Fentanyl Is A Very Potent Pain Reliever And As Such Safety Measures Are Needed
Fentanyl citrate is the salt form of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid. It is typically added to an intravenous fluid that drips through a needle or catheter placed in a patient’s vein, delivered continuously for around-the-clock relief. The common use of this drug is for severe chronic pain, such as breakthrough cancer pain. However, in the injection form it is also used as a supplement in general or regional anesthesia.
As a very powerful narcotic analgesic, the drug carries the risk of adverse effects, including a potentially fatal overdose. The side effects of fentanyl use vary in severity, but can include:
• Skin rash
• Itching
• Blisters
• Swelling
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Drowsiness
• Upset Stomach
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Stomach pain
• Difficulty urinating
• Hyperventilation
Though some of the above adverse effects are common, patients should alert their doctors about which effects they are experiencing. However, fentanyl toxicity, often caused by an allergic reaction or overdose, is very serious, and can lead to a fatal respiratory depression. A patient who experiences the following symptoms of an overdose should seek medical attention immediately:
• Slowed heartbeat
• Slowed breathing
• Pinpoint pupils
• Cold, clammy skin
• Fainting
• Seizures
Another reason that the narcotic may be dangerous with respect to respiration is that it can cause rigidity in the muscles involved. This effect is typically related to the dose and speed of injection, and may be reduced by the introduction of a neuromuscular blocking agent.
Considering these risks, fentanyl should be used with caution in patients who might be susceptible to respiratory depression, such as:
• Comatose patients who may have a head injury
• Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Patients with a decreased respiratory reserve
These are some safety guidelines that you should consider when you have been prescribed this drug:
• Look closely at the solution to ensure that it is free of floating material
• Gently squeeze the bag to ensure that there are no leaks
• Use the medication exactly as directed, which means reading all of the prescribing information first
• Do not take the medication more often or for a longer period than your doctor has advised
• Do not change the dosing schedule prescribed by your doctor
• Store the medication as directed (typically in a refrigerator)
• Keep supplies in a clean, dry place
• Keep the medication and supplies out of the reach of children
• Consult with your doctor before discontinuing the medication
Again, any use of this medication should be closely supervised by a doctor, and dosage should be individualized. Like other forms such as Duragesic pain patches, fentanyl citrate is sometimes inappropriately prescribed. A doctor should not prescribe it for minor discomfort such as headaches, and anyone taking the drug should only use it for the use indicated by their trusted health care provider.
When used properly, this medication can be a source of relief for those with serious chronic pain. Though there are inherent dangers with any powerful drug, being aware of the dangers outlined above can help prevent adverse effects.
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