Download Patient-Controlled Analgesia and Fentanyl Lollipops

Information for patients
Patient-Controlled Analgesia and Fentanyl Lollipops
What is Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA)?
Patient-controlled analgesia is a method of pain relief that makes it easier for patients to
control their pain. Patients are able to control when and how much pain medication they give
themselves. Oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate (commonly known as “fentanyl lollipops”) is an
opiod drug similar to morphine and commonly used in pain relief.
Why do I need Patient Controlled Analgesia and Fentanyl Lollipops?
Studies have shown that patients who control when and how much pain medication they
receive experience greater relief than those given medication by a physician. Furthermore,
patients report higher satisfaction with PCA compared to physician-directed analgesia. Using
fentanyl lollipops allows you to have complete control over your pain relief and fewer side
effects compared to intravenous morphine. Furthermore, fentanyl is associated with a faster
recovery time, meaning you may be able to be discharged from the hospital faster. Fentanyl
lollipops do not involve needles and do not require an injection. You may however require a
needle for blood sampling or administration of other drugs in the management of your injury.
What are the risks?
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Both fentanyl lollipops and morphine have side effects that you should be aware of. You
may experience nausea, vomiting, and unsteadiness on your feet. Rarely, you may have
trouble breathing or feel confused.
You should alert the doctor or another member of staff immediately if you
experience any of the above side effects.
What are the benefits?
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You may be given pain relief medication faster and in a non-invasive manner.
Since you simply place the medication against the inside of your cheek, it is less
invasive than other forms of pain relief, which generally require an intravenous (IV) line
to be inserted into your vein.
You can control when you stop taking the medication. Since the fentanyl lollipops
deliver the medication through the inside of your cheek, you can simply inform staff if
your pain drops below a 3/10 and remove the fentanyl lollipop from your mouth.
Fentanyl lollipops may have a lower risk of nausea, vomiting, respiratory
depression, and other complications of common pain medications used in the
Emergency Department.
Fentanyl is associated with a faster recovery time, meaning you may be able to
leave the hospital sooner.
Are there any other treatment options?
Yes. You may choose not to use the fentanyl lollipop. If you choose not to use the fentanyl
lollipop, a physician will discuss care with you and prescribe other appropriate medication to
manage your pain.
What happens if I choose not participate?
You will still be prescribed appropriate pain relief medication even if you choose not participate.
17/04/2012 v1 How do I use a Fentanyl Lollipop?
Use the fentanyl lollipop exactly as prescribed.
Step 1
• Place the medicine end of the fentanyl lollipop into your
mouth between your cheek and gums and roll against the
inside of your cheek.
Step 2
• Move the medicine end of the fentanyl lollipop around
along the inside of your cheeks.
Step 3
• Twirl the handle often.
(Images from http://www.actiq.com)
Finish the the fentanyl lollipop completely in 15 minutes to get the most relief. If you finish
the medication too quickly, you will swallow more of the medicine and get less relief. Do not
bite or chew the fentanyl lollipop, as by eating it you will get less relief.
Who should I contact if I have any questions?
Ask any physician in the emergency department if you have any questions. The contact persons
for this study are Dr. Jason van der Velde and Dr. Iomhar O’Sullivan.
17/04/2012 v1