1.1  Adults

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is a transdermal formulation of fentanyl indicated for

the management of persistent, moderate to severe chronic pain in opioid-tolerant patients 2 years of age and older when a continuous, around-the-clock opioid analgesic is required for an extended period of time, and the patient cannot be managed by other means such as non-steroidal analgesics, opioid combination products, or immediate-release opioids.

Patients considered opioid-tolerant are those who are taking at least 60 mg of morphine daily, or at least 30 mg of oral oxycodone daily, or at least 8 mg of oral hydromorphone daily, or an equianalgesic dose of another opioid for a week or longer.

The initial dose of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be obtained or calculated from the conversion tables (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION), and must not be higher than that dose which is equivalent to the total dose of opioids the patient is receiving at the time of the switch to the patch.

Because serious or life-threatening hypoventilation could occur, FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should not be used in:

· non-opioid-tolerant patients

· the management of postoperative pain

Special Populations

Pediatrics

Used with caution as life-threatening respiratory depression has been reported in some pediatric patients receiving fentanyl transdermal system.

The use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in children under 18 years of age is not recommended, as dosage requirements for the safe and efficacious use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM have not been established for this patient population. Life-threatening hypoventilation has been reported in some pediatric patients receiving fentanyl transdermal system.

Elderly and Debilitated Patients

In elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients, FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM may have altered pharmacokinetics due to poor fat stores, muscle wasting or altered clearance (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). Therefore, it may be appropriate, according to clinical judgment, to initiate these patients on a lower FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose than that which the conversion tables recommend (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

1.1 General

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should only be prescribed by persons knowledgeable in the continuous administration of potent opioids, in the management of patients receiving potent opioids for treatment of pain and in the detection and management of respiratory depression including the use of opioid antagonists.

At the time of the switch to FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM from other opioids, patients must be tolerant to opioid therapy of comparable potency to that of the intended initiating dose. Use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in patients who are non-opioid- tolerant, or insufficiently tolerant, may lead to fatal respiratory depression.

Dosing Considerations

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM doses must be individualized based upon the status of each patient and should be assessed at regular intervals after application. Proper optimization of doses scaled to the relief of the individual's pain should aim at the regular administration of the lowest dose of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM which will achieve the overall treatment goal of satisfactory pain relief with acceptable side effects. Dosage of the drug must be individualized according to the response and tolerance of the patient. The most important factor to be considered in determining the appropriate dose is the extent of pre-existing opioid tolerance.

Reduced doses of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM are suggested for the elderly and other groups discussed in WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.

There has been no systematic evaluation of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM as an initial opioid analgesic in the management of chronic pain. Most patients in the clinical trials were converted to fentanyl transdermal system from other opioid therapies on which inadequate to moderate pain control had been experienced prior to conversion.

Initiation of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in patients who are opioid-naive is contraindicated at any dose (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). The initial dose of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be obtained from the conversion tables in DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, and must not be higher than that dose which is equivalent to the total dose of opioids the patient is receiving at the time of the switch to the patch. It may be appropriate, according to clinical judgment, to initiate some patients on a lower FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose than that which the conversion tables recommend (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Opioid analgesics may be only partially effective in relieving dysesthetic pain, postherpetic neuralgia, stabbing pains, activity-related pain and some forms of headache. That is not to say that patients with these types of pain should not be given an adequate trial of opioid analgesics, but it may be necessary to refer such patients at an early time to other forms of pain therapy.

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM has a high potential for abuse and diversion (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS).

Concomitant Use of CYP3A4 Inhibitors

The concomitant use of fentanyl transdermal system with potent cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors (ritonavir, ketoconazole, itraconazole, troleandomycin, clarithromycin, nelfinavir, nefazodone, verapamil, diltiazem, amiodarone, amprenavir, fosamprenavir, aprepitant, fluconazole, erythromycin and grapefruit juice) may result in an increase in fentanyl plasma concentrations, which could increase or prolong adverse drug effects and may cause potentially fatal respiratory depression. Patients concomitantly exposed to fentanyl transdermal system and potent CYP3A4 inhibitors should be carefully monitored for an extended period of time and dosage adjustments should be made if warranted (see INTERACTION WITH OTHER MEDICINAL PRODUCTS AND OTHER FORMS OF INTERACTION).

Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment

Pediatrics

The use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in children under 18 years of age is not recommended as dosage requirements for the safe and efficacious use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM have not been established for this patient population. Life-threatening hypoventilation has been reported in some pediatric patients receiving FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM.

Adults: Initial Dose Selection

In selecting an initial FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose, attention should be given to 1) the daily dose, potency, and characteristics of the opioid the patient has been taking previously (e.g. whether it is a pure agonist or mixed agonist-antagonist), 2) the reliability of the relative potency estimates used to calculate the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose needed (potency estimates may vary with the route of administration), 3) the degree of opioid tolerance, and 4) the general condition and medical status of the patient.

At the time of the switch to FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, patients must be tolerant to opioid therapy of comparable potency to that of the intended initiating dose. It may be appropriate, according to clinical judgment, to initiate some patients on a lower FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose than that which the conversion tables recommend. Overestimating the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose when converting patients from another opioid medication can result in fatal overdose with the first dose. Due to the mean elimination half-life of 17 hours of fentanyl, patients who are thought to have had a serious adverse event, including overdose, will require monitoring and treatment for at least 24 hours or until the adverse event has subsided.

Parenteral/Oral/Equianalgesic Potency Conversion

To convert adult patients from oral or parenteral opioids to FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, use Table 1.1.

Alternatively, for adult patients taking opioids or doses not listed in Table 1.1, use the following methodology:

1. Calculate the previous 24-hour analgesic requirement expressed in morphine equivalents.

2. Use Table 1.2 to convert this equianalgesic morphine dose to the recommended initial FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose. This conversion recommendation is intentionally conservative to minimize the potential for FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM overdosage.

For delivery rates in excess of 100 mcg/h, multiple systems may be applied.

Because of the gradual increase in serum fentanyl concentration over the first 24 hours following initial system application, the initial evaluation of the maximum analgesic effect of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM cannot be made before 24 hours of wearing. Patients should use short- acting analgesics after the initial dose application as needed until analgesic efficacy with FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is attained.

Initial Dose Selection in Elderly, Cachectic, or Debilitated Patients

In patients from these populations, fentanyl transdermal system may have altered pharmacokinetics due to poor fat stores, muscle wasting or altered clearance. Therefore, it may be appropriate, according to clinical judgment, to initiate these patients on FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM at a dose level lower than that which the conversion tables recommend (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). As with all FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patients, they should be carefully monitored for pain levels and adverse events, particularly hypoventilation.

Dose Adjustment

Dose titration is the key to success with opioid analgesic therapy. The recommended initial FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose based upon the daily morphine dose is conservative, and 50% of patients are likely to require a dose increase after initial application of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM. If analgesia is insufficient after the initial application, the first dosage increase should occur three days after application, while all subsequent dosage increases should occur six days following the previous application.

Initial Dosage Increase: The initial FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dosage may be increased after 3 days based on the daily dose of supplemental analgesics required by the patients in the second or third day of the initial application.

All Other Dosage Increases: Physicians are advised that it may take up to 6 days after increasing the dose of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM for the patient to reach equilibrium on the new dose. Therefore, patients should wear a higher dose through two applications before any further increase in dosage is made on the basis of the average daily use of a supplemental analgesic.

Titration Dose Increment: Dosage of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM must be individualized according to the pain relief and tolerance of the patient. Appropriate dosage increments should be based on the daily dose of supplementary opioids. Some patients may continue to require periodic supplemental doses of short-acting analgesic for ‘breakthrough’ pain.

Maintenance

The majority of patients are adequately maintained with FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM administered every 72 hours. A small number of patients may not achieve adequate analgesia using this dosing interval and may require systems to be applied every 48 hours rather than every 72 hours. If breakthrough pain repeatedly occurs at the end of the dosing interval, it is generally an indication for a dosage increase rather than more frequent administration. An increase in the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose should be considered before changing dosing intervals in order to maintain patients on a 72-hour regimen.

Some patients may require additional or alternative methods of opioid administration when the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose exceeds 300 mcg/h.

Decreased Dosing or Discontinuation of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM

Following the successful relief of severe pain, periodic attempts should be made to reduce the opioid dose. Lower doses or complete discontinuation of the opioid analgesic may become feasible due to physiological change or improved mental state of the patient.

Opioid withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety and shivering, are possible in some patients after conversion or dose decrease.

For patients requiring discontinuation of opioids, a gradual downward titration is recommended since it is not known at what dose level the opioid may be discontinued without producing the signs and symptoms of abrupt withdrawal (see Dose Adjustment, Titration Dose Increment)

For all downward titration, it is important to note that it takes 17 hours or more for the fentanyl serum concentration to fall by 50% after system removal.

Safe Use of Tables 1.1 and 1.2

To convert patients to another opioid, remove FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM and titrate the dose of the new analgesic, based upon the patient's report of pain, until adequate analgesia has been attained.

Tables 1.1 and 1.2 should not be used to convert from FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM to other opioid therapies. Because the conversion to fentanyl transdermal system is conservative, use of Tables 1.1 and 1.2 for conversion to other analgesic therapies can overestimate the dose of the new agent. Overdosage of the new analgesic agent is possible.

Table 1.1¹ Dose Conversion Guidelines

Dose Conversion Guidelines are Unidirectional and for Chronic use.

Use this table to convert patients from the Current Analgesic ONLY to Fentanyl Transdermal System. Do NOT use this table to convert patients from Fentanyl Transdermal System to other opiods; doing so may result in overdose and toxicity

 ¹Table 1.1 should not be used to convert from FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM to other therapies because this conversion to FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is conservative. Use of Table 1.1 for conversion to other analgesic therapies can overestimate the dose of the new agent. Overdosage of the new analgesic agent is possible (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, Safe Use of Tables 1.1 and 1.2).

²NA reflects insufficient data available for guidance. Prescribers should make these conversions very carefully and conservatively.

³The conversion ratio of parenteral hydromorphone to oral hydromorphone of 1:2 is based on clinical experience in patients with chronic pain. Reference: Parenteral Drug Therapy Manual, Vancouver General Hospital, Pharmaceutical Sciences Clinical Services.

Table 1.2: Recommended initial Fentanyl Transdermal System Dose Based Upon Daily Oral Morphine Dose*

*In clinical trials these ranges of daily oral morphine doses were used as a basis for conversion to fentanyl transdermal system. See Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment, Dose Adjustment.

Administration

Application of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be applied to non-irritated and non-irradiated skin on a flat surface such as the chest, back, flank, or upper arm. Hair at the application site should be clipped (not shaved) prior to application. If the site of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM application must be cleansed prior to application of the system, do so with clear water. Do not use soaps, oils, lotions, alcohol, or any other agents that may irritate the skin or alter its characteristics. Allow the skin to dry completely prior to system application.

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be applied immediately upon removal from the sealed package. The system should not be altered, e.g., cut, in any way prior to its application. The transdermal system should be pressed firmly in place with the palm of the hand for 30 seconds, making sure the contact is complete, especially around the edges.

Each FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM may be worn continuously for 72 hours. A new system should be applied on a different skin site after removal of the previous transdermal system.

General

Use in non-opioid-tolerant patients, or use of an initiating dose which is higher than the opioid equivalent to which the patient is tolerant at the time of the switch, may lead to fatal respiratory depression.

The following contraindications reduce the potential risk of serious or life-threatening, hypoventilation: FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should not be used in the management of acute or postoperative pain since there is no opportunity for dose titration during short-term use and serious or life-threatening hypoventilation could result. Similarly, FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should not be administered to patients who do not have some degree of tolerance to opioid-induced side effects.  FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should ONLY be prescribed to patients who require continuous opioids for pain management, and who are tolerant to at least the morphine equivalent of the lowest initiating FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose.

The initial dose of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be obtained from the conversion tables in DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, and must not be higher than that dose which is equivalent to the total dose of opioids the patient is receiving at the time of the switch to the patch. It may be appropriate, according to clinical judgment, to initiate some patients on a lower FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose than that which the conversion tables recommend. Opioid-naive patients should not be given FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM at any dose (see CONTRAINDICATION).

The use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in children under 18 years of age is not recommended as dosage requirements for the safe and efficacious use of fentanyl transdermal system have not been established for this patient population. Life-threatening hypoventilation has been reported in some pediatric patients receiving fentanyl transdermal system.

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should only be prescribed by persons knowledgeable in the continuous administration of potent opioids, in the management of patients receiving potent opioids for treatment of pain and in the detection and management of respiratory depression including the use of opioid antagonists.

Since serum fentanyl concentrations decline gradually after system removal, patients who have experienced serious adverse events should be monitored for at least 24 hours after FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM removal or until the adverse reaction has subsided.

As with other CNS depressants, patients who have received FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be closely monitored especially for signs of respiratory depression until a stable maintenance dose is reached.

Due to the formation of a subcutaneous depot of fentanyl, not only does continued exposure occur after system removal but, in the case of removal prior to attainment of peak fentanyl exposure, fentanyl plasma levels may in fact continue to increase after removal of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patches.

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patches are intended for transdermal use on intact skin only; use on compromised skin can lead to increased exposure to fentanyl.

Placing FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in the mouth, chewing it, swallowing it, or using it in any ways other than indicated may cause choking or overdose that could result in death.

Risk of Unintentional Increase in Drug Exposure

Patients with Fever: Serum fentanyl concentrations could theoretically increase by approximately one-third for patients with a body temperature of 40°C (104°F) due to temperature-dependent increases in fentanyl release from the system and increased skin permeability. Patients who develop fever should be monitored for opioid side effects and have their FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose adjusted if necessary.

External Heat Sources: There is a potential for temperature-dependent increases in fentanyl released from the system resulting in possible overdose and death. A clinical pharmacology trial conducted in healthy adult subjects has shown that the application of heat over the fentanyl transdermal system increased mean fentanyl AUC values by 120% and mean Cmax values by 61%. All patients should be advised to avoid exposing the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM application site to direct external heat sources, such as heating pads, electric blankets, heated water beds, heat lamps, hot water bottles, saunas and hot whirlpool spa baths, intensive sunbathing, etc.

Accidental Exposure to FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM

Serious medical consequences, including death, have occurred when people were accidentally exposed to fentanyl transdermal system. Examples of accidental exposure include transfer of a fentanyl transdermal system patch while hugging, sharing a bed, or moving a patient.

Disposal of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be kept out of the reach of children before and after use.

Used systems should be folded so that the adhesive side of the system adheres to itself, then flushed down the toilet immediately upon removal. If the drug adhesive layer accidentally contacts the skin, the area should be washed with clear water. Patients should dispose of any systems remaining from a prescription as soon as they are no longer needed. Unused systems should be removed from their pouch, folded so that the adhesive side of the system adheres to itself, then flushed down the toilet (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and SPECIAL HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS).

Cardiovascular

Intravenous fentanyl may produce bradycardia. Fentanyl should be administered with caution to patients with bradyarrhythmias.

Concomitant Use of Central Nervous System Depressants

When patients are receiving FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, the dose of additional opioids or other CNS depressant drugs (including alcohol beverages, benzodiazepines, general anesthetics, muscle relaxants and sedating over-the-counter antihistamines) should be reduced by at least 50%. The concomitant use of CNS depressants may result in hypotension, respiratory depression and profound sedation, coma or death (see INTERACTION WITH OTHER MEDICINAL PRODUCTS AND OTHER FORMS OF INTERACTION).

Concomitant Use of CYP3A4 Inhibitors

The concomitant use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM with potent cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors (ritonavir, ketoconazole, itraconazole, troleandomycin, clarithromycin, nelfinavir, nefazodone, verapamil, diltiazem, amiodarone, amprenavir, fosamprenavir, aprepitant, fluconazole, erythromycin and grapefruit juice) may result in an increase in fentanyl plasma concentrations, which could increase or prolong adverse drug effects and may cause potentially fatal respiratory depression. In this situation special patient care and observation are appropriate. Therefore, the concomitant use of transdermal fentanyl and CYP 3A4 inhibitors is not recommended unless the patient is closely monitored, for an extended period of time, for signs of respiratory depression, with dosage adjustments made as warranted (see INTERACTION WITH OTHER MEDICINAL PRODUCTS AND OTHER FORMS OF INTERACTION).

Potential for Abuse and Diversion

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM contains a high concentration of a potent opioid, fentanyl, which along with other opioids of the morphine type has high potential for abuse and associated risk of fatal overdose due to respiratory depression. The high fentanyl content in FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patches may be a particular target for abuse and diversion, with alternative routes of administration potentially resulting in overdose from uncontrolled delivery of the opioid.

This risk should be considered when administering, prescribing, or dispensing FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in situations where the healthcare professional is concerned about increased risk of misuse, abuse or diversion.

Concerns about abuse, addiction and diversion should not prevent the proper management of pain. Patients should be assessed for their clinical risks for opioid abuse or addiction prior to being prescribed opioids. All patients receiving opioids should be routinely monitored for signs of misuse and abuse.

Since FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM may be diverted for non-medical use, careful record keeping of prescribing information, including quantity, frequency, and renewal requests is strongly advised. Proper assessment of the patient, proper prescribing practices, periodic re-evaluation of therapy, and proper dispensing and storage are appropriate measures that help to limit abuse of opioid drugs (see Dependence/Tolerance).

Dependence/Tolerance Drug

Drug Dependence vs. Abuse

Fentanyl is an opioid substance and can produce drug dependence similar to that produced by morphine. FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, therefore, has the potential for abuse.

However, tolerance as well as both physical and psychological dependence may develop upon repeated administration of opioids, and are not by themselves evidence of an addictive disorder or abuse. Iatrogenic addiction following appropriate opioid administration for relief of severe pain is relatively rare. Physicians should not let concerns of physical dependence deter them from using adequate amounts of opioids in the management of severe pain when such use is indicated. Patients at increased risk of opioid abuse may still be appropriately treated with modified-release opioid formulations; however, these patients will require monitoring for signs of misuse, abuse or addiction.

Drug or Alcohol Dependence

Use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in combination with CNS depressants, including alcohol, can result in increased risk to the patient (see INTERACTION WITH OTHER MEDICINAL PRODUCTS AND OTHER FORMS OF INTERACTION).

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be used with caution in individuals who have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, especially those outside a medically controlled environment. While the management of severe pain in patients with a history of addiction requires special consideration, the use of opioids is not necessarily contraindicated in these patients. There may also be an increased risk of diversion in this population; this risk may be decreased by attention to patterns of prescription requests, and by prescribing opioids only as part of an ongoing relationship between a patient and a healthcare provider.

"Drug seeking" behaviour includes emergency calls or visits near the end of office hours; refusal to undergo appropriate examination, testing or referral; repeated "loss" of prescriptions; tampering with prescriptions; "doctor shopping" to obtain additional prescriptions; and reluctance to provide prior medical records or contact information for other treating physician(s).

Head Injuries and Increased Intracranial Pressure

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should not be used in patients who may be particularly susceptible to the intracranial effects of CO2 retention such as those with evidence of increased intracranial pressure, impaired consciousness, or coma. Opioids may obscure the clinical course of patients with head injury. FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be used with caution in patients with brain tumours.

Perioperative Considerations

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is contraindicated for perioperative pain relief, especially in the elective surgical setting.  In the case of planned chordotomy, or other pain- relieving operations, patients should not be treated with FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM within 72 hours before the operation and should not be used in the immediate post-operative period. Thereafter, if FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is to be continued after the patient recovers from the post-operative period, a new dosage should be administered in accordance with the changed need for pain relief, if needed, and to reduce the risk of withdrawal in highly opioid-tolerant patients.

The administration of analgesics in the perioperative period should be managed by health care providers with adequate training and experience (e.g., an anesthesiologist) (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Hepatic/Biliary/Pancreatic

Because of the hepatic metabolism of fentanyl, FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be used with caution in patients with liver dysfunction.

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi and should be used with caution in patients with biliary tract disease, including acute pancreatitis. Opioids like fentanyl may cause increases in the serum amylase concentration.

If patients with hepatic impairment receive FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, they should be observed carefully for signs of fentanyl toxicity and the dose of FENTANYL  TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM reduced if necessary.

Renal

Because of the renal excretion of fentanyl, FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be used with caution in patients with kidney dysfunction.

If patients with renal impairment receive FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM,  they should be observed carefully for signs of fentanyl toxicity and the dose reduced if  necessary.

Respiratory 

Respiratory Depression

As with all potent opioids, some patients may experience significant respiratory depression (including respiratory distress, apnea, bradypnea, hypoventilation, dyspnea) with FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM; caution must be exercised and patients carefully observed for untoward reactions. While most patients using fentanyl transdermal system chronically develop tolerance to fentanyl-induced hypoventilation, episodes of slowed respiration may occur at any time during therapy. A small number of patients have experienced clinically significant hypoventilation with fentanyl transdermal system; medical intervention generally was not required in these instances. The incidence of respiratory depression increases as the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose is increased.

Hypoventilation can occur throughout the therapeutic range of fentanyl serum concentrations. However, the risk of hypoventilation increases at serum fentanyl concentrations greater than 2 ng/mL in non-opioid-tolerant patients, especially for patients who have an underlying pulmonary condition or who receive usual doses of opioids or other CNS drugs associated with  hypoventilation in addition to FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM (see INTERACTION WITH OTHER MEDICINAL PRODUCTS AND OTHER FORMS OF INTERACTION, Overview, Additive Effects of Other CNS Depressants). The use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be monitored by clinical evaluation. As with other drug-level measurements, serum fentanyl concentrations may be useful clinically, although they do not reflect patients' sensitivity to fentanyl and should not be used by physicians as a sole indicator of effectiveness or toxicity.

The duration of the respiratory depressant effect of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM may extend beyond the removal of the system (see also OVERDOSAGE concerning respiratory depression).

Gastrointestinal Tract

Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. The resultant prologation in gastrointestinal transit time may be responsible for the constipating effect of fentanyl. Patients should be advised on measures to prevent constipation and prophylactic laxative use should be considered. Extra caution should be used in patients with chronic constipation. If paralytic ileus is present or suspected, treatment with FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be stopped (see PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES, Pharmacodynamics).

Use in Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Disease

Fentanyl should be used with caution in patients with chronic pulmonary disease, patients with decreased respiratory reserve and others with potentially compromised respiration. Normal analgesic doses of opioids may further decrease respiratory drive in these patients to the point of respiratory failure.

Information for Patients

Consumer information sheet is included in the package of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patches dispensed to the patient.

Patients receiving FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patches should be given the following instructions by the physician:

1. Patients should be informed that accidental ingestion or use by individuals (including children) other than the patient for whom it was originally prescribed, may lead to severe, even fatal, consequences.

2. Patients should be advised that FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patches contain fentanyl, an opioid pain medicine similar to morphine, hydromorphone, methadone, oxycodone, and oxymorphone.

3. Patients should be advised that each FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patch may be worn continuously for 72 hours, and that each patch should be applied to a different skin site after removal of the previous transdermal patch.

4. Patients should be advised that FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patches should be applied to intact, non-irritated, and non-irradiated skin on a flat surface such as the chest, back, flank, or upper arm. Additionally, patients should be advised of the following:

· In young children or persons with cognitive impairment, the patch should be put on the upper back to lower the chances that the patch will be removed and placed in the mouth.

· Hair at the application site should be clipped (not shaved) prior to patch application.

· If the site of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM application must be cleansed prior to application of the patch, do so with clear water.

· Do not use soaps, oils, lotions, alcohol, or any other agents that may irritate the skin or alter its characteristics.

· Allow the skin to dry completely prior to patch application.

5. Patients should be advised that FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be applied immediately upon removal from the sealed package and after removal of the protective liner.

Additionally the patient should be advised of the following:

· The FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patch should not be used if the seal is broken, or if it is altered, cut, or damaged in any way prior to application. The transdermal patch should be pressed firmly in place with the palm of the hand for 30 seconds, making sure the contact is complete, especially around the edges.

· The patch should not be folded so that only part of the patch is exposed.

6. Patients should be advised that, while wearing the patch, they should avoid exposing the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM application site to direct external heat sources, such as:

· heating pads,

· electric blankets,

· heat lamps,

· saunas,

· hot tubs, and

· heated water beds, etc.

7. Patients should be advised that there is a potential for temperature-dependent increase in fentanyl release from the patch that could result in an overdose of fentanyl; therefore, if patients develop a high fever while wearing the patch they should contact their physician.

8. Patients should be advised that if they experience problems with adhesion of the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patch, they may tape the edges of the patch with first aid tape. If problems with adhesion persist, patients may overlay the patch with a transparent adhesive film dressing.

9. Patients should be advised that if the patch falls off before 72 hours a new patch may be applied to a different skin site.

10. Patients should be advised to fold (so that the adhesive side adheres to itself) and immediately flush down the toilet used FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patches after removal from the skin.

11. Patients should be instructed that, if the drug adhesive layer accidentally contacts the skin, the area should be washed clean with clear water and not soap, alcohol, or other chemicals, because these products may increase the ability of fentanyl to go through the skin.

12. Patients should be advised that the dose of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should NEVER be adjusted without the prescribing health care professional's instruction.

13. Patients should be advised that FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM may impair mental and/or physical ability required for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks (e.g., driving, operating machinery).

14. Patients should be advised to refrain from any potentially dangerous activity when starting on FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM or when their dose is being adjusted, until it is established that they have not been adversely affected.

15. Patients should be advised that FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should not be combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants (e.g., sleep medications, tranquilizers) because dangerous additive effects may occur, resulting in serious injury or death.

16. Patients should be advised to consult their physician or pharmacist if other medications are being or will be used with FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM.

17. Patients should be advised of the potential for severe constipation.

18. Patients should be advised that if they have been receiving treatment with FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM and cessation of therapy is indicated, it may be appropriate to taper the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose, rather than abruptly discontinue it, due to the risk of precipitating withdrawal symptoms.

19. Patients should be advised that FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM contains fentanyl, a drug with high potential for abuse.

20. Patients, family members and caregivers should be advised to protect FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM from theft or misuse in the work or home environment.

21. Patients should be advised that FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should never be given to anyone other than the individual for whom it was prescribed because of the risk of death or other serious medical problems to that person for whom it was not intended.

22. Patients should be instructed to keep FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM in a secure place out of the reach of children due to the high risk of fatal respiratory depression.

23. When FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is no longer needed, the unused patches should be removed from their pouches, folded so that the adhesive side of the patch adheres to itself, and flushed down the toilet.

24. Women of childbearing potential who become or are planning to become pregnant should be advised to consult a physician prior to initiating or continuing therapy with FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM.

25. Patients should be informed that accidental exposure or misuse may lead to death or other serious medical problems.

26. Patients should be informed that, if the patch dislodges and accidentally sticks to the skin of another person, they should immediately take the patch off, wash the exposed area with water and seek medical attention for the accidentally exposed individual.

27. Patients should be informed that, because FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM contains aluminum, they are recommended to remove the patch before undergoing any magnetic resonance imaging scan to avoid possible burns.

Pediatrics (<18 years of age):

Used with caution as life-threatening respiratory depression has been reported in some pediatric patients receiving fentanyl transdermal system. The use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL

SYSTEM in children under 18 years of age is not recommended, as dosage requirements for the safe and efficacious use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM have not been established for this patient population. Life-threatening hypoventilation has been reported in some pediatric patients receiving fentanyl transdermal system.

Elderly and Debilitated Patients:

In elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients, FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM may have altered pharmacokinetics due to poor fat stores, muscle wasting or altered clearance (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). Therefore, it may be appropriate, according to clinical judgment, to initiate these patients on a lower FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM dose than that which the conversion tables recommend (see CONTRAINDICATIONS). As with all FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patients, they should be carefully monitored for pain levels and adverse events, particularly hypoventilation.

Overview

Additive Effects of Other CNS Depressants

Hypoventilation, hypotension and profound sedation or coma may occur with the concomitant use of other central nervous system depressants (including other opioids, sedatives or hypnotics, general anesthetics, phenothiazines, tranquilizers); skeletal muscle relaxants, sedating antihistamines, and alcoholic beverages may produce additive depressant effects. When combined therapy is contemplated, the dose of each agent should be reduced by at least 50%.

Drug-Drug Interactions

CYP3A4 Inhibitors

Fentanyl, a high clearance drug, is rapidly and extensively metabolized mainly by the human cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme system (CYP3A4); therefore, potential interactions may occur when fentanyl transdermal system is given concurrently with agents that affect CYP3A4 activity. The concomitant use of transdermal fentanyl with ritonavir or other potent 3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, troleandomycin, clarithromycin, nelfinavir, nefazodone, verapamil, diltiazem, amiodarone, amprenavir, fosamprenavir, aprepitant, fluconazole, erythromycin and grapefruit juice may result in an increase in fentanyl plasma concentrations which could increase or prolong adverse drug effects and may cause serious respiratory depression (see also WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Concomitant Use of CYP3A4 Inhibitors). In this situation, special patient care and observation are appropriate. The concomitant use of CYP3A4 inhibitors and FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is not recommended, unless the patient is closely monitored.

CYP3A4 Inducers Coadministration with agents that induce 3A4 activity suchasrifampicin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin mayreduce the efficacyof FENTANYLTRANSDERMALSYSTEM. This may require adose adjustment of transdermal fentanyl. After stopping thetreatmentofa CYP3A4 inducer, the effects of the inducer decline gradually and mayresult in an increaseinfentanyl plasma concentration which could increase orprolong both the therapeutic and adverse effects, and maycause serious respiratory depression.

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors

Severe and unpredictable potentiation by MAO inhibitors has been reported with opioid analgesics. Since the safety of fentanyl in this regard has not been established, the use of fentanyl in patients who have received MAO inhibitors during the previous 14-day period is not recommended. Conversely, the use of MAO inhibitors in patients who have received fentanyl in the previous 14-day period is not recommended.

Serotonergic Drugs

Coadministration of fentanyl with a serotonergic agent, such as a Selective Serotonin Re- uptake Inhibitor or a Serotonin Norepinephrine Re-uptake Inhibitor, may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition (see also UNDESIRABLE EFFECTS, Post-Market Adverse Drug Reactions).

Pregnant Women:

Fentanyl has been shown to impair fertility and to have an embryocidal effect in rats when given in intravenous doses 0.3 times the human dose for a period of 12 days. No evidence of teratogenic effects has been observed after the administration of fentanyl to rats.

The safe use of fentanyl has not been established with respect to possible adverse effects upon human fetal development. Neonatal withdrawal syndrome has been reported in newborn infants with chronic maternal use of fentanyl transdermal system during pregnancy. Therefore, FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should not be used in women of childbearing potential unless, in the judgment of the physician, the potential benefits outweigh the possible hazards.

Use of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM during childbirth is not recommended because fentanyl passes through the placenta and may cause respiratory depression in the newborn child.

Nursing Women:

Fentanyl is excreted in human milk, therefore FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is not recommended for use in nursing women because of the possibility of effects in their infants.

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM may impair mental and/or physical ability required for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks such as driving a car or operating machinery. Patients using FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should not drive or operate dangerous machinery unless they are tolerant to the effects of the drug.

Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions

Cancer Trials - Adults

Open-Label and Active-Control Double-Blind Studies

The safety of fentanyl transdermal system has been evaluated in 153 cancer patients and 357 postoperative patients. The duration of fentanyl transdermal system use varied in cancer patients: 56% of patients used fentanyl transdermal system for over 30 days, 28% continued treatment for more than 4 months, and 10% used fentanyl transdermal system for more than 1 year. In cancer patients, fentanyl transdermal system was administered in doses of 25 mcg/h to 600 mcg/h. Patients with acute pain used fentanyl transdermal system for 1 to 3 days.

Respiratory depression, the most serious adverse reaction, was observed in 3 (2%) of the cancer patients, 13 (4%) of postoperative patients. Hypotension and hypertension were observed in 11 (3%) and 4 (1%) of the opioid-naive patients.

Placebo-Controlled Study

Adverse events occurring at a greater frequency than placebo were identified in a placebo- controlled clinical trial of fentanyl transdermal system (25 mcg/h to 100 mcg/h) in cancer patients. Patients were stabilized on morphine for 7 days, and those who achieved adequate pain relief (n=131) were then switched to fentanyl transdermal system. During the initial open-label dose- titration and stabilization period of 15 days, a total of 43 patients dropped out; four experienced dyspnea, 3 nausea and 1 severe hallucinations.

Following this stabilization period, the nine-day double-blind period began, with patients randomized to either continue the dose of fentanyl transdermal system achieved during stabilization (n=47) or to switch to placebo (n=48). Rescue morphine was available. The median dose of fentanyl transdermal system was 50 mcg/h. Adverse events during this period, as reported by at least 1 fentanyl transdermal system patient (2.1%), and with a higher frequency of occurrence versus placebo include: vomiting (4.3% vs 0%), and the following events at 2.1% vs 0%: abscess, vertigo, hemorrhage, abdominal pain and jaundice.

Chronic Non-Cancer Pain Trials - Adults

The safety findings from the two primary trials (FEN-INT-12, n=248 patients; and FEN-INT-13, n=532 patients) are described below (see Product Monograph, Part II: CLINICAL TRIALS,  Chronic Non- Cancer Pain (CNCP) Trials for methodological details on the trials).

Safety Findings

Adverse events related to respiratory depression (reported as either bradypnea or hypoventilation) have been reported in 3/780 (0.4%) of the CNCP patients, leading to discontinuation in all three cases.

There were nine deaths (all in the one-year trial): four were due to cardiac events, three to pneumonia, one to a cerebrovascular event, and one to cancer.

The discontinuation rates were 16% for the one-month crossover trial (FEN-INT-12) and 43% for the one-year trial (FEN-INT-13).

Of the 780 patients, 149 (19%) received less than one month fentanyl transdermal system treatment, 272 (35%) used fentanyl transdermal system for one to six months, 137 (18%) for six months to one year and 222 patients (28%) continued treatment for more than one year.

Among patients who completed the one-year trial (n=301 of 530 ITT patients), the mean dose at the 12-month endpoint was 90.4 mcg/h, with the most common dose being 75 mcg/h.

Most Common Adverse Events

A causal relationship of adverse events to fentanyl transdermal system was not always determined. The most commonly observed adverse events in the non-cancer chronic pain clinical trials, regardless of causal relationship, are: nausea or vomiting, somnolence, constipation, sweating, headache, dizziness, pruritus and depression.

Other reported Undesirable effects occurring in > 1% of patients that are probably or likely related to fentanyl transdermal system treatment are:

Application Site: application site reaction

Body as a Whole: fatigue, pain, malaise, asthenia, hot flushes, withdrawal syndrome, back pain, rigors, temperature changed sensation

Central & Peripheral Nervous System: tremor, vertigo, hypertonia

Gastrointestinal System: dry mouth, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia

Heart Rate and Rhythm: palpitation

Liver and Biliary System: hepatic enzymes increased, gamma-GT increased

Metabolic and Nutritional: weight decreased, LDH increased

Psychiatric: anorexia, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, nervousness, agitation, hallucination, concentration impaired, emotional lability, amnesia

Respiratory System: dyspnea

Skin and Appendages: rash erythematous, skin disorder

Chronic Pain Trials - Pediatrics

The safety of fentanyl transdermal system has been evaluated in 293 opioid-tolerant pediatric patients (age 18 years or less) with chronic pain, with n=63 receiving fentanyl transdermal system for at least 2 months. Approximately 60% of the patients had underlying pain due to malignancy. The number of patients in the lower age ranges were as follows: n=2 patients < 2 years old; n=65 patients 2 to < 6 years old; n=100 patients 6 to <12 years old. The most commonly reported adverse events regardless of causality include: vomiting (14.3%), nausea (11.6%), constipation (9.2%), pruritus (8.2%), and somnolence (5.8%). Three patients experienced respiratory depression within 96 hours of beginning fentanyl transdermal system; two of these patients died. The underlying condition of the patients contributed to the deaths. The third patient's decreased respiratory rate was resolved after temporary discontinuation of fentanyl transdermal system.

Dosing recommendations for the safe and effective use of fentanyl transdermal system in this patient population have not been established, in view of the combination of:

i) the variety of factors which could lead to overexposure from fentanyl transdermal system in children as compared to adults (including smaller body weight and significantly different body surface area; differential skin characteristics; potential for magnification, compared to adults, of the impact of amount of body fat stores, muscle wasting, fever, external heat), and

ii) the limitations in both formal PK data (see PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES, Pharmacokinetics, Special Populations and Conditions) and exposure data (as above).

Post-Market Adverse Drug Reactions

In post-marketing experience, deaths from hypoventilation have been reported in cases of inappropriate use of fentanyl transdermal system.

Other opioid-related Undesirable effects include: nausea, vomiting, constipation, hypotension, bradycardia, somnolence, headache, confusion, hallucination, euphoria, pruritus, sweating, pyrexia tachycardia, paresthesia, sexual dysfunction, and urinary retention.

Skin reactions such as rash, erythema and itching have occasionally been reported. These reactions usually resolve within 24 hours or upon removal of the patch.

There have been very rare reports of anaphylactic and anaphylactoid reaction, including Stevens- Johnson syndrome, airway constriction, swelling, anaphylactic shock, and two deaths that occurred within 24 hours of the anaphylactic reaction. In one case, it was the care-giver of the patient who experienced dyspnea, urticaria and swelling, within ten minutes of applying the patch to the patient.

There have also been rare reports of convulsions, including clonic convulsions and grand mal convulsions. In two cases, vegetative state or coma was reported to immediately follow the convulsions.

Opioid withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety and shivering are possible in some patients after conversion from their previous opioid analgesic to fentanyl transdermal system or if therapy is stopped suddenly. There have been very rare reports of newborn infants experiencing neonatal withdrawal syndrome when mothers chronically used fentanyl transdermal system during pregnancy (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS: Special Populations, Pregnant Women).

Post-marketing reports describe patients with symptoms suggestive of, or diagnostic of, serotonin syndrome following the concomitant use of fentanyl with a serotonergic drug, such as a Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitor or a Serotonin Norepinephrine Re-uptake Inhibitor (see also INTERACTION WITH OTHER MEDICINAL PRODUCTS AND OTHER FORMS OF

INTERACTION, Drug-Drug Interactions).

-  To report any side effect(s):

Symptoms

The manifestations of fentanyl overdosage are an extension of its pharmacologic actions with the most serious effect being respiratory depression.

Treatment

For management of respiratory depression, immediate countermeasures include removing the FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patch and physically or verbally stimulating the patient. These actions can be followed by administration of a specific opioid antagonist such as naloxone. The duration of respiratory depression following an overdose may be longer than the effects of the opioid antagonist's action (the half-life of naloxone ranges from 30 to 81 minutes). The interval between IV antagonist doses should be carefully chosen because of the possibility of re- narcotization after system removal; repeated administration of naloxone may be necessary.

Reversal of the opioid effect may result in acute onset of pain and release of catecholamines.

If the clinical situation warrants, establish and maintain a patent airway, administer oxygen and assist or control respiration as indicated, and use an oropharyngeal airway or endotracheal tube if necessary. If depressed respiration is associated with muscular rigidity, an intravenous neuromuscular blocking agent may be required to facilitate assisted or controlled respiration.

Adequate body temperature and fluid intake should be maintained.

If severe or persistent hypotension occurs, the possibility of hypovolemia should be considered, and managed with appropriate parenteral fluid therapy.

Fentanyl is an opioid analgesic which interacts predominantly with the µ-opioid receptor. Fentanyl produces analgesia, sedation, respiratory depression, constipation, and physical dependence but appears to have less emetic activity than other opioid analgesics. Fentanyl may produce muscle rigidity, miosis, cough reflex suppression, alterations in mood, bradycardia and bronchoconstriction.

Analgesic blood levels of fentanyl may cause nausea and vomiting directly by stimulating the chemoreceptor trigger zone, but nausea and vomiting are significantly more common in ambulatory than in recumbent patients, as is postural syncope.

Opioids increase the tone and decrease the propulsive contractions of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. The resultant prolongation in gastrointestinal transit time may be responsible for the constipating effect of fentanyl. Because opioids may increase biliary tract pressure, some patients with biliary colic may experience worsening rather than relief of pain.

While opioids generally increase the tone of urinary tract smooth muscle, the net effect tends to be variable, in some cases producing urinary urgency, in others, difficulty in urination.

At therapeutic dosages, fentanyl usually does not exert major effects on the cardiovascular system. However, some patients may exhibit orthostatic hypotension and fainting.

Histamine assays and skin wheal testing in man indicate that histamine release rarely occurs with fentanyl. Assays in man show no clinically significant histamine release in dosages up to 50 mcg/kg.

Both the minimum effective concentration and the concentration at which toxicity occurs rise with increasing tolerance. The rate of development of tolerance varies widely among individuals.

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM provides continuous systemic delivery of fentanyl for up to 72 hours. Fentanyl is released along the concentration gradient existing between the drug adhesive layer of the system and the lower concentration in the skin.

Adults

Fentanyl Transdermal System

Absorption:

Fentanyl is released at a relatively constant rate. The concentration gradient existing between the matrix and the lower concentration in the skin drives drug release. Following initial fentanyl transdermal system administration, serum fentanyl concentrations increase gradually, generally leveling off between 12 and 24 hours and remaining relatively constant for the remainder of the 72-hour application period. Peak serum levels of fentanyl generally occur between 24 and 72 hours after the first application.

Serum fentanyl concentrations achieved are proportional to the fentanyl transdermal system delivery rate (see Table 1.3). With continuous use, serum fentanyl concentrations continue to rise for the first few system applications. After several sequential 72-hour applications, patients reach and maintain a steady- state serum concentration that is determined by individual variation in skin permeability and body clearance of fentanyl.

Table 1.3

Pharmacokinetic Parameters of TTS (fentanyl) in Adults

After fentanyl transdermal system removal, serum fentanyl concentrations decline gradually, falling about 50% in approximately 17 (range 13-22) hours. Continued absorption of fentanyl from the skin accounts for a slower disappearance of the drug from the serum than is seen after an IV infusion, where the apparent half-life ranges from 3-12 hours.

Distribution:

The average volume of distribution for fentanyl is 6 L/kg (range 3-8, n=8). The average clearance in patients undergoing various surgical procedures is 46 L/h (range 27-75, n=8). The plasma protein binding for fentanyl is about 84%.

Metabolism:

Skin does not appear to metabolize fentanyl delivered transdermally. Fentanyl is metabolized primarily in the liver. This was determined in a human keratinocyte cell assay and in clinical studies in which 92% of the dose delivered from the system was accounted for as unchanged fentanyl that appeared in the systemic circulation. In humans, the drug is metabolized primarily by N-dealkylation to norfentanyl and other inactive metabolites.

Excretion:

Within 72 hours of IV fentanyl administration, approximately 75% of the fentanyl dose is excreted in urine, mostly as metabolites, with less than 10% representing unchanged drug.

Approximately 9% of the dose is recovered in the feces, primarily as metabolites.

Special Populations and Conditions

Pediatrics Under 18 Years of Age: In a pharmacokinetic study with non-opioid-tolerant patients, 8 children aged 1.5 to 5 years old on 25 mcg/h patches were compared to 8 adults on 50 mcg/h patches. The comparative "dose per mean body weight" i.e. mcg/h/kg was 1.67 for children vs 0.67 for adults. Mean Cmax was 50% higher in the children and mean AUC ~25% higher, with both mean Tmax and mean half-life shorter (approx. 50% and 75% of the adult values, respectively). For 6 of the 8 children, there was no apparent plateau in plasma concentrations. Adjusting for either body weight or body surface area, clearance in pediatric subjects was found to be about 20%-40% higher than in adults.

Analyses of population pharmacokinetics data in pediatrics indicate that the variability in fentanyl AUC and Cmax values at steady state (Css) correlated with changes in body surface area (BSA) values observed in subjects. An increase in BSA of 0.1 m2 is predicted to result in a 4.8% increase in clearance and 4.6% decrease in Css.

Dosing recommendations for the safe and effective use of fentanyl transdermal systems in this patient population have not been established, in view of the combination of:

i) the variety of factors which could lead to overexposure from fentanyl transdermal systems in children as compared to adults (including smaller body weight and significantly different body surface area; differential skin characteristics; potential for magnification, compared to adults, of the impact of amount of body fat stores, muscle wasting, fever, external heat), and

ii) the limitations in both formal PK data (as above) and exposure data (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, Clinical Trial Adverse Drug Reactions, Chronic Pain Trials - Pediatrics)

Elderly or Debilitated Patients: In elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients, FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM may have altered pharmacokinetics due to poor fat stores, muscle wasting or altered clearance. The clearance of fentanyl may be reduced, and the terminal half-life prolonged (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

Data from intravenous studies with fentanyl suggest that elderly patients may have reduced clearance, a prolonged half-life, and they may be more sensitive to the drug than younger patients. In a study conducted with fentanyl transdermal system healthy elderly subjects had fentanyl pharmacokinetics which did not differ significantly from healthy young subjects although peak serum concentrations tended to be lower and mean half-life values were prolonged to approximately 34 hours. Elderly patients should be observed carefully for signs of fentanyl toxicity and the dose reduced if necessary (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

Hepatic Impairment: In a study conducted with patients with hepatic cirrhosis, the pharmacokinetics of a single 50 µg/hr application of fentanyl transdermal system were assessed. Although Tmax and T½ were not altered, the mean plasma Cmax and AUC values increased by approximately 35% and 73%, respectively, in these patients. Patients with hepatic impairment should be observed carefully for signs of fentanyl toxicity and the dose of FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM reduced if necessary.

Renal Impairment: Data obtained from a study administering IV fentanyl in patients undergoing renal transplantation suggest that the clearance of fentanyl may be reduced in this patient population. If patients with renal impairment receive FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM, they should be observed carefully for signs of fentanyl toxicity and the dose should be reduced if necessary.

Fentanyl has been administered by the oral, intravenous, intramuscular or subcutaneous routes either acutely or subacutely to rats, mice, guinea pigs, hamsters and cats. Laboratory animals tolerate relatively large doses of fentanyl in comparison to the doses recommended for human use (generally not more than 0.002-0.005 mg/kg).

Acute Toxicity

Intravenous LD50 determinations showed that the rat and guinea pig, with an LD50 in the 2-3 mg/kg range, were the most sensitive species tested; the mouse and dog were more tolerant, having LD50's in the 11 - 14 mg/kg range. Intramuscular LD50 determinations showed that the rat was the most sensitive species tested, having an LD50 of 1 mg/kg; the most tolerant species was the hamster with an LD50 of 65 mg/kg.

Carcinogenicity

In a two-year carcinogenicity study conducted in rats, fentanyl was not associated with an increased incidence of tumors at subcutaneous doses up to 33 µg/kg/day in males or 100 µg/kg/day in females (0.16 and 0.39 times the human daily exposure obtained via the 100 mcg/h patch based on AUC0-24h comparison).

Subacute Toxicity - Rats

Four weeks of repeated administration of fentanyl by the intramuscular route (0, 0.1 and 0.4 mg/kg/day) and intravenous routes (0, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.05 and 0.075 mg/kg/day) were without effect on hematologic profile, food consumption, or gross or microscopic examination, with the exception of some local irritation at intramuscular sites. Intramuscular administration was associated with a low mortality incidence; following intravenous administration, mortality was present at 0.03 mg/kg/day and above.

Oral administration of fentanyl at doses of 5, 10, 20, 40, 80, 160 and 320 mg/kg/day for 14 days resulted in mortality at 10 mg/kg/day and above; survivors were noted to have bloody urine and bloody diarrhea which subsided during the second week of treatment.

Subacute Toxicity - Dogs

Intramuscular administration of 0, 0.1 and 0.4 mg/kg/day of fentanyl for four weeks did not produce significant effects on hematologic profile, body weight, organ weight, or gross or microscopic examinations. Intravenous administration of 0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 mg/kg/day for four weeks did not produce any mortality or significant gross lesions.

Physical signs associated with intravenous treatment included slight decrease in body weight, sedation, hypercapnia and decreased food consumption at all dosage levels, and convulsions principally at the high-dosage level. In addition, dogs in the high-dosage group had some pathology of the liver (mild cholestasis and granular cytoplasm in hepatocytes) and kidney (granular casts in collecting tubules or vacuolation) that may have been drug related; however, none of the lesions were considered severe or irreversible.

Tissue Irritation Studies

Tissue irritation studies demonstrated that transdermal system fentanyl elicited mild skin irritation and had little or no sensitization potential.

Studies of rabbits receiving 28 and 90 days of transdermal fentanyl administration showed no differences among the 3 treatment groups (negative control, TT placebo and TT fentanyl) with regard to hematology, blood chemistries or histological evaluations of skin and systemic tissues.

Teratology

Adult rats of a Wistar substrain were used in studies to determine the possible teratological effects of fentanyl on dams and their offspring. Three successive generations received fentanyl subcutaneously during the first 21 days of pregnancy, in daily doses of 0.04, 0.08, 0.16 and 0.31 mg/rat. No congenital abnormalities were produced in the experimental groups, but there were dose-related decreases in dam survival, survival in utero and average litter size and weight. A slight delay in delivery time and an increased mortality of the newborn were also observed in rats receiving fentanyl.

Mutagenicity

Fentanyl tested negative in the Ames Assay, UDS assay and Mammalian Cell Transformation Assay. Fentanyl did not cause chromosomal aberrations in vitro in human lymphocytes or in Chinese hamster ovary cells in the presence or absence of an exogenous metabolic source.

In the L5178Y Mouse Lymphoma Assay, fentanyl was nongenotoxic without activation. With activation, fentanyl at concentrations of 37 mcg/mL and higher demonstrated mutation frequencies above control levels; these concentrations are approximately 2,000 times greater than plasma levels observed with a fentanyl transdermal system in clinical use.

This medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products.

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be stored in sealed pouch below 25°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze.

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM is comprised of a release liner, a functional layer and a backing. Proceeding from the outer surface towards the surface adhering to the skin, these layers are 1) a backing layer of polyethylene/aluminum/polyester film, 2) an adhesive matrix containing isopropyl myristate, octyldodecanol, polybutene and polyisobutene and the active ingredient, fentanyl and 3) a protective release liner made of polyester. The peelable release liner must be removed before the system can be applied.

IMPERMEABLE BACKING

FENTANYL IN PIB ADHESIVE

MATRIX RELEASE LINER

Used systems should be folded so that the adhesive side of the system adheres to itself, then flushed down the toilet immediately upon removal (see SPECIAL HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS).

FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM should be kept out of the reach of children before and after use.

Do not cut FENTANYL TRANSDERMAL SYSTEM patches.

Used systems should be folded so that the adhesive side of the system adheres to itself, then flushed down the toilet immediately upon removal. If the drug adhesive layer accidentally contacts the skin, the area should be washed with clear water. Do not use soap, alcohol, or other solvents,  as these may enhance the drug’s ability to penetrate the skin. Patients should dispose of any systems remaining from a prescription as soon as they are no longer needed. Unused systems should be removed from their protective pouch, folded so that the adhesive side of the patch adheres to itself, and flushed down the toilet.

Wash hands with water only, after applying or removing the patch.