Matrifen

Fentanyl, the active ingredient in Matrifen, is an opioid analgesic presented as a transdermal patch for transdermal use. It provides continuous systemic delivery of fentanyl to manage severe chronic pain and cancer‑related pain in patients who require around‑the‑clock opioid therapy and have tolerance to other opioids.

GNH USA supplies Matrifen as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, oncology centres, pharmacies and clinics worldwide.

Fentanyl is an opioid analgesic used primarily for severe pain conditions that require continuous opioid delivery.

Severe chronic non‑cancer pain: provides long‑lasting analgesia for patients with persistent pain unresponsive to other treatments. Cancer pain: delivers steady opioid levels to control baseline and breakthrough pain in oncology patients. Adjunct for breakthrough pain: used together with short‑acting opioids to manage episodic pain spikes while maintaining baseline control.

Fentanyl may cause a range of adverse reactions, some of which are common and others that are serious or rare.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea and vomiting - Constipation - Drowsiness or sedation - Dizziness or light‑headedness

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Respiratory depression, which can be life‑threatening - Severe hypotension or cardiovascular collapse - Skin irritation or allergic reaction at the patch site - Dependence, addiction, or overdose risk

When prescribing or using Matrifen, several safety considerations should be observed. - Assess opioid tolerance: confirm the patient is opioid‑tolerant before initiating therapy. - Monitor respiratory function: watch for signs of respiratory depression, especially after dose changes. - Avoid use with MAO inhibitors: contraindicated within 14 days of MAOI therapy. - Educate on patch handling: do not cut, expose to external heat sources, or apply to damaged skin. - Store at room temperature: keep in the original pouch, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Fentanyl can interact with other medicines, altering its safety or effectiveness.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Concomitant CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, barbiturates): risk of profound respiratory depression. - Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): may cause severe hypotension or serotonin syndrome. - Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin): increase fentanyl plasma levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine): may reduce analgesic effect. - Other opioids: additive sedation and respiratory depression. - Alcohol: enhances central nervous system depression.