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Fentanyl

Generic: Fentanyl Citrate

Rx only
Opioid✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗
Fentanyl is a powerful medication used to relieve pain during and after surgery, especially for patients undergoing high-risk procedures. It works by blocking pain signals in the brain, helping to reduce discomfort. The medication is given by injection, with adults typically starting at a dose of 50 to 100 micrograms, and the maximum dose can vary based on individual needs. It's important to know that fentanyl can cause serious breathing problems, especially if used with other medications that depress the central nervous system, like benzodiazepines. If you have a known allergy to fentanyl, you should not use this medication.

Uses

  • Short-term pain relief during anesthesia.
  • Supplement for general or regional anesthesia.
  • Anesthetic premedication for high-risk surgeries.
  • Pain control in the recovery room.

Dosage

Adults: 50 mcg to 100 mcg before surgery.
Children 2 to 12 years: 2 mcg/kg to 3 mcg/kg.
Administer as needed during and after surgery.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.

Side effects

Common

nauseadizzinessblurred visionrespiratory depression

Serious

cardiac arrestseizures
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Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

  • Risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse.
  • May cause life-threatening respiratory depression.
  • Avoid use with benzodiazepines or CNS depressants.
  • Monitor for serotonin syndrome with serotonergic drugs.

Drug interactions

  • CYP3A4 inhibitorsmay increase fentanyl effectsCaution
  • CYP3A4 inducersmay decrease fentanyl effectsCaution
  • Benzodiazepinesrisk of sedation and respiratory depressionCaution
  • Serotonergic drugsrisk of serotonin syndromeCaution

Ask about this drug

Answers pulled from the FDA label only.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).