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Fentanyl dosing schemes
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid agonist that binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system to produce analgesia and sedation.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid agonist that binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system to produce analgesia and sedation. Used for Acute perioperative pain, Chronic cancer pain, Severe acute pain requiring opioid analgesia.
At a glance
| Generic name | Fentanyl dosing schemes |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Ghent |
| Drug class | Opioid analgesic |
| Target | Mu-opioid receptor (OPRM1) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Pain management |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Fentanyl activates mu-opioid receptors throughout the brain and spinal cord, inhibiting pain signal transmission and producing potent analgesic effects. It is approximately 50-100 times more potent than morphine. Various dosing schemes (transdermal patches, intravenous infusions, intranasal, sublingual formulations) allow tailored delivery for acute perioperative pain, chronic cancer pain, and other severe pain conditions.
Approved indications
- Acute perioperative pain
- Chronic cancer pain
- Severe acute pain requiring opioid analgesia
Common side effects
- Respiratory depression
- Sedation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Pruritus
Key clinical trials
- Hyperalgesia, Persistent Pain, and Fentanyl Dosing in On-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |