Patient was educated on contraindications for using Fentanyl as follows:
- Fentanyl must be avoided or used cautiously in individuals allergic to other opioid analgesics, such as Hydrocodone, Morphine, and Codeine.
- Fentanyl slows down the bowel movements heavily and leads to constipation. Fentanyl must be avoided or used with extreme caution in chronically constipated patients, as they are at increased risk for episodes of ileus and intestinal obstruction with Fentanyl.
- Fentanyl produces an intense feeling of drowsiness and dizziness, as a side effect to modifying the pain perception of brain. Patients can also experience hallucinations and mood changes due to Fentanyl use. Fentanyl must be avoided or used with extreme caution in individuals taking antidepressants and other psychotropic medications that have the potential to induce hallucinations and mood changes.
- Fentanyl is mainly metabolized by the liver. Individuals with history of compromised liver function cannot metabolize Fentanyl and this can lead to increased blood levels of Fentanyl for longer duration, leading to toxicity. Fentanyl should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
- Fentanyl is mainly excreted in the urine. Individuals with compromised renal functions tend to retain the drug in the circulation longer, thus resulting in toxicity. Fentanyl should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
