Transdermal fentanyl use in hospice home-care patients with chronic cancer pain

In this study, 11 cancer patients who experienced severe pain were treated with transdermal fentanyl. Of the 11 patients, 7 completed the 4-wk protocol. Of the 4 patients who did not complete the study, 3 died due to disease progression, and 1 was withdrawn by the primary physician. Patients' pain level, mood, and quality of life were evaluated before starting the transdermal fentanyl patch system and again at 2 and 4 wk. Data from the 7 patients who completed the study showed no statistical differences in pain level, mood, or quality of life at any of the three time points. Starting doses ranged from 25 micrograms/hr to 325 micrograms/hr, with increases from 0% to 300%. There were no significant adverse reactions to the medication. The hospice patients chose to continue with the transdermal fentanyl system for pain control after completing the study.