Abstral (Fentanyl) Pills

Crucial information

Never use Abstral as a replacement for any other Fentanyl form like Actiq, Duragesic or Fentanyl generic brands like skin patch, injection, etc.

You should never use Abstral to treat pain that is not cancer-related. Also, note that its misuse can cause addiction, overdose, and even death especially to kids or other people using it without a prescription. It should be stored in a place where other people cannot access it.

You should not take it in amounts that are more substantial or for a longer time than prescribed. Abstral can interact with other medicines and cause severe breathing problems.

You should also be Abstral tolerant to use the drug.

You should keep Abstral away from children because it can be fatal to them.

Before taking Abstral, tell your doctor if you have:

• Ulcers or mouth sores
• Any breathing condition
• Any history of brain tumor, head injury, or seizures
• Slow heartbeats, low blood pressure, or any other heartbeat condition
• Any mental state like hallucinations, depression
• Kidney or liver condition
• A history of alcohol or substance abuse

Note that if a pregnant woman is using Abstral, the baby could become dependent on Fentanyl, which can cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the baby after birth. Such babies might need medical treatment for a few weeks. It is required of you to tell the doctor if you are pregnant or you are planning to be pregnant. You should also avoid breastfeeding while pregnant.

How to use Abstral

You should get it exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Follow all the instruction on the prescription label. You take the Abstral tablet by placing it under the tongue, far back as possible. Never chew, break, and swallow the tablet whole or suck. Allow the tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing it.  Avoid eating or drinking anything at this time.

One can use a second Abstral dose 30 minutes after taking the first one. You should take the same amount and strength you used in the early treatment. Never treat more than four episodes of pain in a day.

You should never quit using this drug suddenly because you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. A medical professional can advise on how to stop safely.

You should follow disposal instructions carefully when you do not need this drug anymore. The doctor can advise on where to find a drug take-back program.

Missing a dose/overdosing

You are unlikely to miss a dose or overdose since this is a pain drug. However, if it happens, take the missed dose immediately you remember or skip if it is almost time for the missed dose. Never use an extra dose to make up for the missed dose. In case of an overdose, seek medical care immediately.

Side effects of Abstral

• Slow breathing and heart rate
• Extreme fear, confusion, and unusual behavior or thoughts
• A feeling of short breath, pale skin, trouble concentrating and rapid heart rate
• Missed menstrual periods, infertility, sexual problems, loss of libido
• Vomiting, constipation, and nausea
• A feeling of thirst

Note that this is not a complete list of side effects. Contact your doctor when you notice them or other unusual effects.