Fentanyl transdermal system. Pain management at home
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton.
Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Transdermal fentanyl provided good pain relief and improved quality of life for 80% of advanced cancer patients. This continuous, noninvasive system offers excellent patient acceptance and allows for home care.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cancer pain affects approximately 65% of patients with advanced malignancies.
- Oral opioids are effective for many, but alternative delivery methods are needed as disease progresses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the use of Duragesic (fentanyl transdermal system), a transdermal opioid for chronic cancer pain in adults.
Main Methods:
- A heterogeneous group of 44 patients received transdermal fentanyl for various pain conditions.
- Doses were titrated from 25 to 300 micrograms/h, with oral opioids used for breakthrough pain.
Main Results:
- Eighty percent of patients achieved good analgesia, improving their quality of life.
- Seventeen percent discontinued treatment due to side effects or poor pain control.
- The system was generally well-tolerated and accepted by patients.
Conclusions:
- Transdermal fentanyl is an effective option for managing chronic cancer pain, offering improved quality of life.
- Its noninvasive, continuous delivery system demonstrates excellent patient compliance and facilitates home-based care.
- Side effects are comparable to conventional opioids, with discontinuation rates manageable.
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