Evidence-based oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate (OTFC) dosing guidelines.
OBJECTIVE
To review the evidence for dosing and efficacy of oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate in the management of pain and produce dosing guidelines.


METHODS
The scientific literature pertaining to oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate was reviewed, focusing upon its pharmacology and clinical experience with use in cancer and noncancer pain. Emphasis was upon published, peer-reviewed English language articles.


RESULTS
Information was crucially examined and synthesized into guidelines for use and dosing of oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate in cancer and noncancer pain.


CONCLUSIONS
Oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate is a potent opioid delivery system, which, when used appropriately, is an effective treatment option for pain. Adherence to guidelines should promote its safe and efficacious use in a variety of clinical pain management settings.
Aronoff
Gerald M
GM
Carolina Pain Associates, Presbyterian Orthopedic Hospital, Charlotte, NC 28207, USA. geraldaronoffmd@msn.com
Brennan
Michael J
MJ
Pritchard
Douglas D
DD
Ginsberg
Brian
B
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005283:Fentanyl / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*
D000701:Analgesics, Opioid; D005283:Fentanyl