Proper Current therapeutic options for breakthrough pain in cancer patients

Abstract

Current treatment options for breakthrough pain have significantly improved with the advent of rapid onset dosage forms of fentanyl, a potent opioid which binds to mu, kappa and delta opioid receptors. It has the highest affinity for mu opioid receptors.

Fentanyl in novel dosage forms is effective in quickly and safely relieving breakthrough pain episodes, as confirmed by numerous clinical studies. Progressive titration is important.

The novel dosage forms of fentanyl offer ease and safety of use to patients for the treatment of breakthrough pain. Adjuvant analgesics are also used for this purpose.

Keywords

• breakthrough pain
• fentanyl
• intranasal administration
• buccal administration
• sublingual administration
• adjuvant therapy