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Abstral
  • Treatments
  • Breakthrough Pain

Abstral

Generic name:fentanyl (sublingual) [ FEN-tan-il-sub-LIN-gwal ]
Brand names: Abstral, Fentora, Subsys
Drug class:Narcotic analgesics

Medically reviewed by Philip Thornton, DipPharm. Last updated on Oct 26, 2021.

What is Abstral?

Abstral is an opioid pain medication. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic.

Abstral sublingual tablets are used to treat "breakthrough" cancer pain that is not controlled by other medicines.

The sublingual tablet is placed on the floor of the mouth under your tongue (sublingual) and allowed to dissolve.

Abstral is not for treating pain that is not cancer-related.

Warnings

Fentanyl can slow or stop your breathing, and may be habit-forming. Use only your prescribed dose. Never share Abstral with another person.

MISUSE OF NARCOTIC PAIN MEDICINE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription.

Fatal side effects can occur if you use this medicine with alcohol, or with other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.

Before taking this medicine

Do not use Abstral unless you are already using an around-the-clock opioid medicine and are tolerant to it. You should not use Abstral if you are allergic to fentanyl, or if you have:

  • severe asthma or other breathing problems; or

  • a stomach or bowel obstruction (including paralytic ileus).

To make sure Abstral is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • breathing problems, sleep ...