U.S. availability of drug therapy for breakthrough cancer pain
April 2, 1999: Abbott Laboratories has announced the
availability in the U.S. of its Actiq(R) (oral transmucosal fentanyl
citrate) product for the treatment of breakthrough cancer pain in patients
already being treated with opioid therapy.
- note: breakthrough pain is characterized by episodes of severe
cancer-related pain that occur despite the regular administration of
other pain-relieving medication.
- Actiq is a medicated drug matrix on a handle that dissolves in the
mouth and is absorbed by the oral mucosa.
- the drug is not intended for use in patients suffering from acute
post-operative pain and is contraindicated in those who are intolerant
to opioids.
- side-effects associated with use of the product include sleepiness,
nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and, in some cases, respiratory depression.
Data taken from an Abbott Laboratories release (April 1, 1999).
