GENERIC NAME: FENTANYL - INJECTION (FEN-tuh-nill)

BRAND NAME(S): Sublimaze

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is a narcotic pain reliever, generally with anesthesia for surgery or procedures.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a muscle (IM) or by slow injection into a vein (IV) by a health care provider. The dose will depend on your condition and response. Use this only as directed. Long-term or excessive use of this medication can cause dependency (or craving for this drug). After a period of time, this medication may not work as well. Consult your doctor or pharmacist.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, pain at the site of injection, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, trouble sleeping or sweating. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Report promptly: mental/mood changes, tremors. Unlikely but report promptly: poor coordination, vision problems, difficulty urinating, unusually slow breathing, hallucinations, slow or irregular heartbeat, rash. Very unlikely but report promptly: seizures, fainting. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. Laxatives with senna may be helpful for narcotic-related constipation. Consult your doctor and pharmacist before use. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially drug allergies), heart problems, kidney problems, liver problems, intestinal problems, lung or breathing problems, enlarged prostate, low blood pressure, low thyroid function, serious head injury, brain disorders, history of drug or alcohol dependency. Alcohol may add to the side effects of this drug, causing drowsiness or dizziness. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the use of alcohol. Use caution if performing tasks requiring alertness since this medication can cause dizziness and drowsiness. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Fentanyl passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Therefore, do not breast-feed without first consulting your doctor. Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug.