Sometimes the pain we experience is so severe, isn't it? You may also suffer from breakthrough pain that suddenly appears at an unexpected time and is not even controlled by ordinary painkillers. It is in such cases that doctors recommend a powerful drug like Fentanyl. So today, let's talk about this Fentanyl Underwater Spray.
What is Fentanyl?
Simply put, Fentanyl is a very powerful painkiller. It belongs to a class of drugs called Opioids . It works by blocking pain signals to our brain and controlling pain.
This medicine is not given for all pain. In particular, if someone who is continuously using other strong painkillers suddenly experiences severe pain (breakthrough pain) that cannot be controlled with those medicines, this Fentanyl Sublingual Spray is used to quickly control that pain.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Because Fentanyl is a very powerful drug, it is important that your doctor is fully aware of your medical condition. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions below.
| Your situation | Why should you inform the doctor? |
|---|---|
| Drug or alcohol addiction or history of addiction | Fentanyl is a drug with a high risk of addiction. |
| Headaches, brain tumors | Under these conditions, the side effects of the drug (drowsiness, breathing difficulties) may increase. |
| Lung or respiratory disease (e.g. asthma) | Fentanyl can slow breathing, so it can be dangerous if you already have breathing problems. |
| Liver or kidney disease | These organs remove drugs from the body. If their function is impaired, the drug can accumulate in the body and become toxic. |
| Low blood pressure | This medicine can further lower blood pressure. |
| Mental illness, seizures | Some of these conditions may be exacerbated by Fentanyl. |
| Mouth sores | The drug can be absorbed into the body rapidly through mouth sores, causing an overdose. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding | Because this medication may affect the baby, it is essential to seek medical advice. |
How exactly do you use this spray?
Okay, now let's see how to use this medicine exactly. This is very simple, but very important.
1. Use only when pain occurs: This is not a daily medication. You should use it only when you have breakthrough pain, as your doctor has told you.
2. Open the packet just before use: Using scissors, carefully open the packet just before using the spray. Do not open it beforehand.
3. Spray under the tongue: Take the cap of the spray, lift your tongue, and spray once into the space under your tongue . Then close your mouth.
4. Do not swallow: Do not swallow or drink water immediately after spraying. Give the medicine some time to absorb through the skin.
5. Do not take more than the prescribed dose: Never take more than the amount prescribed by your doctor. If the pain does not subside, talk to your doctor before taking the next dose.
Overdose: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital ETU (Emergency Treatment Unit) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . This can be life-threatening.
This medicine is for you only! Never give it to anyone else. It is illegal and very dangerous for that person's life.
Other things that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)
Fentanyl is a powerful drug that can interact with other medications, foods, and drinks. So it's important to tell your doctor about all the medications you're taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
| What can cause collisions? | Things to pay special attention to |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | Absolutely not! Taking it with alcohol can cause dangerous side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and respiratory arrest. |
| Medications for depression, anxiety, or sleep | Drowsiness and difficulty breathing may increase. |
| Some antibiotics and antifungals | These can increase the time Fentanyl stays in the body and increase side effects. |
| Grapefruit juice | Grapefruit juice can increase the level of Fentanyl in the body and cause a dangerous condition. |
| Other opioid painkillers or cough medicines | The risk of side effects and overdose is very high. |
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about everything you take.
Things to keep in mind when using the medicine
Let's understand Tolerance, Dependence and Addiction.
After using this medicine for a while, you may notice that the pain no longer decreases with the previous dose. We call this tolerance . This is normal, don't worry. Also, the body gets used to this medicine. If you stop taking it suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. This is called dependence .
Tolerance and Dependence do not mean that you are addicted to the drug. Addiction is the psychological seeking of the drug without a medical reason. If you are taking medication for pain, it is a medical necessity. When you need to stop taking the drug, the doctor will gradually reduce the dose to eliminate the side effects.
Be aware of Naloxone
Naloxone is a life-saving emergency medicine given to someone who has overdosed on opioids. It is important for you and your family to be aware of this medicine. Be aware of the symptoms of an overdose (extreme drowsiness, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness). Ask your doctor how to give Naloxone and where to get it.
Other important points
- Drowsiness and dizziness: This medication may make you feel drowsy and dizzy. Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.
- Constipation: Constipation is common with this medication. Drink plenty of water and eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables). If you haven't gone to the bathroom for three days, be sure to talk to your doctor.
- Dry mouth: If your mouth is dry, chewing sugar-free gum and sipping water may help.
What side effects can be expected?
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips/tongue/face. |
| Slow breathing (CNS depression) | Slow or shallow breathing, excessive sleepiness, loss of consciousness, difficulty waking up. |
| Low blood pressure | Severe dizziness, blurred vision, fainting. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Constipation | Nausea and vomiting |
| Dizziness and drowsiness | Dry mouth and headache |
Take-Home Message
- Fentanyl Spray should only be used for severe pain as prescribed by a doctor.
- Do not share this medicine with anyone else for any reason . It is very dangerous.
- Be aware of the symptoms of an overdose (severe drowsiness, difficulty breathing). If this happens, go to the ETU immediately.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you take, and if you use alcohol.
- Keep this medicine in a safe place out of the reach of children and pets.
- Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor.
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