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CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Jo Murrell, Fear Free,

Medication: Fentanyl transdermal patch

Medication: Fentanyl transdermal patch

Your cat has been prescribed a fentanyl transdermal patch for the treatment of pain.

Key points: 
• This medication is not licensed for use in cats. Your veterinarian will explain off-license use of medications.
• Fentanyl is a highly addictive and potent opioid. Keep out of reach of children and other pets. Seek rapid medical help if this product is touched or consumed by a pet or person.
• Wear gloves when handling this product.
• This medication is subject to controlled drug law (UK and US). Your veterinarian will dispose of this patch for you after use. 

This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian. 

Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage

Name

  • Fentanyl (fen-tah-nil).

Class of medication

  • Opioid.

Storage

  • Store at room temperature.
  • Store in a secure location away from pets and children.

Why has my cat been prescribed fentanyl?

Your veterinarian has prescribed fentanyl for the treatment of severe pain that requires continuous strong pain relief. Examples of use include following major surgery, fractured limbs and palliative care in cancer patients.

How is the medication given?

Fentanyl transdermal patches adhere to the skin. The patch will be covered with a dressing to prevent your pet from licking at it. Your pet will also require a “buster” collar to prevent them from reaching the patch. It is important that your pet does not lick or ingest the patch as this could make them very unwell.

The patch will need to be changed by your veterinarian every 72 hours, although the frequency of patch changes may vary between patients.

Patches must not be applied to damaged or inflamed skin.

Pets must not come into contact with heat sources such as radiators, heat pads and hot water bottles while wearing a patch as the heat can significantly increase the amount/speed of drug released, resulting in an overdose.

Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?

Possible side-effects include respiratory depression (difficulty breathing), vomiting, constipation, confusion, excitement, skin irritation at the site of patch placement, low body temperature, slow heart rate, tiredness and/or loss of balance.

Use with caution with morphine or other opioid type analgesics. May have additive effects with other Central Nervous System depressants such as sedatives, anesthetics, antihistamines and seizure medication.

Do not use fentanyl for 14 days after using isoniazid, amitraz or monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as selegiline hydrochloride (deprenyl).

Any side-effects should be reported to your veterinarian. Your pet may be able to continue with the drug if side-effects are mild, but it’s best to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible so that they can decide whether continuing with this medication is appropriate.

How long will my cat need to receive this medication

Fentanyl should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. The length of treatment will vary between patients.

How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all

If a patch comes off, wear disposable gloves to collect the patch and seal it in a plastic bag. Immediately contact your veterinarian to arrange alternative pain relief for your pet and return the patch to your veterinarian for disposal.

My cat is unwell, what should I do?

If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.

What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?

Fentanyl patches will be applied by your veterinarian so it should not be necessary for you to handle them. Fentanyl patches should only be applied to the cat that they have been prescribed for. If accidentally touched, applied to or ingested by another pet or human seek immediate medical assistance. Inform the attending veterinarian or medical physician that fentanyl has been ingested so that they can prepare an antidote (naloxone).Fentanyl can be a very dangerous drug and it is important to seek assistance immediately if a human comes into contact with a fentanyl patch.

Will my cat need to be monitored while on fentanyl?

Your veterinarian will need to examine your pet periodically to be able to prescribe this medication safely and within prescribing regulations.

Further information 

If you have any concerns, further information on fentanyl can be found on the package insert or by contacting your veterinarian.

Europe & UK

  • There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.

US

  • There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.

Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your cat’s medication.

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