Anton Bilchik Discusses Fentanyl

Providing comfortable, effective care for patients battling cancer is a priority for Anton Bilchik MD. This cancer specialist sometimes prescribes fentanyl to relieve breakthrough cancer pain that is not relieved by other drugs. Dr. Bilchik would like you to know more about Fentanyl, which may be an important part of your cancer treatment program.

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, with a chemical structure similar to morphine; fentanyl is up to 100 times more powerful than morphine. Manufacturers create fentanyl in laboratories. Fentanyl is available by prescription only.

Drug makers produce fentanyl in several forms to make it easier for you to use. You can apply fentanyl patches, known as Duracet, directly to your skin. Fentanyl is also available as a fast-acting, flavored lollipop, as a tablet that dissolves under your tongue, a film that you place on the inside of your cheek, a lozenge, and as a “buccal” tablet that dissolves on top of your tongue.

Fentanyl is a powerful pain reliever; improper use can be dangerous or lethal. Take this drug only as prescribed and never share fentanyl with another person. This medication is an opioid drug that may cause physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking fentanyl.

Fentanyl may cause side effects, including nausea, drowsiness, stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. These side effects should fade with regular fentanyl use as prescribed; contact the prescribing physician if these side effects do not lessen with regular use.

Contact Anton Bilchik with your questions about fentanyl and other drugs used in cancer care.