Drug reference
fentanyl
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Musculoskeletal (Opioids)
Mechanism of action
Narcotic agonist-analgesic of opiate receptors; inhibits ascending pain pathways, thus altering response to pain; increases pain threshold; produces analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation
Common side effects
- Asthenia
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Anorexia
- Somnolence
- Confusion
- Depression
Contraindications
- Significant respiratory depression Acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in the absence of resuscitative equipment Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus Hypersensitivity to drug or components of the formulation Within 2 weeks…
Known interactions (1)
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is fentanyl?
fentanyl belongs to: Musculoskeletal.
How does fentanyl work?
Narcotic agonist-analgesic of opiate receptors; inhibits ascending pain pathways, thus altering response to pain; increases pain threshold; produces analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation
What are the common side effects of fentanyl?
Asthenia, Dry mouth, Constipation, Anorexia, Somnolence, Confusion, Depression
Which drugs interact with fentanyl?
clarithromycin
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
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