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Fentanyl for breakthrough pain: a systematic review

The purpose of this article is to systematically review the use of fentanyl as an analgesic for breakthrough pain. This article found that the oral transmucosal fentanyl (OTFC) had a quicker onset to analgesia than oral immediate-release opioids. Intranasal fentanyl (INFS) had a quicker onset to analgesia than buccal tablets, which in turn had a quicker onset to analgesia than OTFC. Patient acceptance and global rating of efficacy were greater for INFS than for buccal fentanyl. OTFC and INFS have been used effectively to reduce acute pain in children who are opioid-naive. Abuse and addiction to OTFC, fentanyl buccal tablets and INFS was low, owing to patient selection.

Fentanyl buccal tablets

Fentanyl buccal tablets (FBT) are designed to manage the breakthrough pain associated with chronic pain with an enhanced rate and extent of fentanyl absorption through the buccal mucosa. The formulation incorporates an effervescent reaction to produce large shifts in pH that enhance absorption. Results from studies of safety and tolerability have shown FBT to be effective and well tolerated in opioid-tolerant chronic pain patients. Adverse events were similar to those seen with other opioids and included nausea and somnolence. Adverse events were common but mild or moderate in most cases and did not cause a high drop-out rate. In addition to the treatment of breakthrough pain, FBT could be clinically efficacious for the treatment of brief, anticipated painful events. The abuse liability of FBT is unknown and caution should be used in prescribing FBT to patients with histories of substance abuse.