Evidence-based oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate (OTFC) dosing guidelines.

Author(s): Aronoff GM, Brennan MJ, Pritchard DD, Ginsberg B

Affiliation(s): Carolina Pain Associates, Presbyterian Orthopedic Hospital, Charlotte, NC 28207, USA. geraldaronoffmd@msn.com

Publication date & source: 2005-07, Pain Med., 6(4):305-14.

Publication type: Review

OBJECTIVE: To review the evidence for dosing and efficacy of oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate in the management of pain and produce dosing guidelines. DESIGN: The scientific literature pertaining to oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate was reviewed, focusing upon its pharmacology and clinical experience with use in cancer and noncancer pain. Emphasis was upon published, peer-reviewed English language articles. RESULTS: Information was crucially examined and synthesized into guidelines for use and dosing of oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate in cancer and noncancer pain. CONCLUSIONS: Oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate is a potent opioid delivery system, which, when used appropriately, is an effective treatment option for pain. Adherence to guidelines should promote its safe and efficacious use in a variety of clinical pain management settings.