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Updated: May 12, 2026
10:13
Fentanyl Analog Screening using LC-TIMS-TOF MS/MS
Published on: November 8, 2024
Fast-acting fentanyl preparations and pain management
1Department of Palliative Medicine, Edinburgh Cancer Research UK Centre, The University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 2XR, UK. kerry.mcwilliams@nhs.net.
QJM : Monthly Journal of the Association of Physicians
|April 25, 2013
Summary
Cancer breakthrough pain is difficult to manage. Fast-acting fentanyl preparations offer a better treatment option than oral morphine due to their rapid onset and resolution, aligning with pain characteristics.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pain Management
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cancer-related pain affects approximately 90% of patients.
- Opioids and the WHO analgesic ladder are the primary treatments.
- Breakthrough pain in cancer patients is challenging to manage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the mismatch between cancer breakthrough pain's temporal profile and oral morphine's pharmacokinetics.
- To evaluate the role of fast-acting fentanyl preparations in managing breakthrough cancer pain.
- To review the evidence for available fast-acting fentanyl formulations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on cancer-related breakthrough pain.
- Analysis of the pharmacological profiles of oral morphine and fast-acting fentanyl.
- Examination of clinical evidence for fast-acting fentanyl preparations.
Main Results:
- Oral morphine's pharmacokinetic profile is often mismatched with the rapid onset/resolution of breakthrough cancer pain.
- Fast-acting fentanyl preparations demonstrate potential for effective breakthrough pain management.
- Evidence supports the use of specific fast-acting fentanyl formulations.
Conclusions:
- Fast-acting fentanyl preparations are a valuable therapeutic option for breakthrough cancer pain.
- Addressing the pharmacokinetic-temporal mismatch is crucial for optimal pain control.
- Further research may refine the use of these agents in clinical practice.
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