Actiq

Cephalon | Actiq (Medication)

Desc:

Actiq/fentanyl citrate is an opioid pain medication. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic. This medication is a prescription narcotic pain used to treat breakthrough pain in people with cancer who are also taking regularly scheduled narcotic medication for their underlying pain.

It comes as a lozenge with a handle to be placed in the mouth between the cheek and gums.

The effects of fentanyl can include:pain relief; drowsiness; changes in mood, including feelings of unease - dysphoria or unusually pleasant feelings - euphoria; cough suppression; slowed or shallow breathing; slowing of the digestive tract, which can lead to constipation; pupil constriction or physical dependence.

The dose of Actiq is prescribed by a doctor and vary depending on the following factors:the type and severity of your pain, the respond to the medication, other medications that are taking and the medical conditions you may have. ...

Side Effect:

Actiq is usually well tolerated. However, like any medicine, can cause side effects. The most common Actiq side effects include:nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, vomiting, weakness, headaches, constipation, confusion, shortness of breath and anxiety.

Other less serious side effects are:abnormal gait; dry mouth; nervousness; flushing; itching; sweating; changes in vision; hallucinations; problems sleeping; fever and chills; back pain; chest pain; diarrhea; gas; indigestion or heartburn; sore throat or coughing.

Although it was not a specific side effect seen in clinical trials, there have been reports of cavities and tooth decay with Actiq use. This occurs due to the fact that Actiq contains sugar. ...

Precaution:

Before taking Actiq, tell your doctor if you have:a history of drug or alcohol dependence or abuse; liver disease, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatitis; kidney disease, such as kidney failure; ever had breathing problems, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or any other lung disease; a head injury, brain tumor, or increased pressure around the brain; had a stroke; ever had a seizure; a slow heart rate or abnormal heart rhythm; hypotension; diabetes or any allergies, including to foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Cases of death in children who accidentally took Actiq have been reported, so it is very important to store this medication in a safe place, away from children who may mistake the lozenges for a lollipop.

Actiq can make you drowsy, and your reflexes and reaction times may be significantly altered, even if you feel fine, therefore it is recommended not to drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Actiq affects you.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended to use this medicine without your doctor's advice. ...