About Fentanyl (matrix) 100mcg/h
Opioid analgesic
Used for
- Severe, persistent pain requiring continuous opioid treatment
- Pain in people already tolerant to opioids
Usual adult dose
Applied every 72 hours; dose is individualized by a clinician based on previous opioid use and pain control.
Usual dose in children
For opioid-tolerant children aged 2 years and older: dose is individualized by a clinician; applied every 72 hours.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Confusion or headache
- Skin irritation where the patch is applied
Important warnings
- Can cause life-threatening breathing problems, especially when starting or increasing treatment.
- Only for opioid-tolerant patients; not for short-term or mild pain.
- Heat, fever, or heating pads can increase fentanyl absorption and overdose risk.
- Keep patches away from children; used and unused patches can cause fatal poisoning.
Pregnancy
May cause newborn withdrawal or breathing problems; prolonged use during pregnancy can harm the baby.
Breastfeeding
Fentanyl passes into breast milk and may cause infant sleepiness or breathing problems; prolonged use is generally not recommended.
Interactions
- Alcohol, sedatives, and other opioids can dangerously increase sleepiness and breathing suppression.
- Some antibiotics, antifungals, and antivirals increase fentanyl levels.
- Rifampicin, carbamazepine, and phenytoin may reduce fentanyl levels.
- Serotonergic medicines can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.