Lonafen is an opioid pain medication that is only available on prescription and used to treat breakthrough cancer pain in patients who are already receiving regular, around-the-clock opioids for chronic cancer pain. It includes fentanyl, an extremely powerful synthetic opioid that is useful for fast pain relief when other painkillers (pain management medications) do not do the job.
Due to its potency, Lonafen is administered only under direct medical control. It is not for common pain, or for those who are opioid-naïve. This article is a comprehensive guide to what Lonafen is, how it works, when and how to use it (and for how long), possible side effects, alongside some crucial warnings about its safety.
What Is Lonafen?
Lonafen is a fentanyl buccal film, intended to be applied inside the mouth — usually against the cheek — where it quickly dissolves and enters the bloodstream. Fentanyl is far more potent than morphine, which is why it is only used for patients experiencing severe episodes of cancer-related pain.
Key Points About Lonafen
- It treats breakthrough pain only
- Absorbs fast, works quickly
- For opioid-tolerant adults only
- Requires a doctor’s prescription
- High overdose and misuse risk
How Does Lonafen Work?
Once the buccal patch attaches to the cheek, fentanyl is absorbed by the oral mucosa. It hooks to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord.
This causes:
- Blocking of pain signals
- Rapid pain relief
- Short-term reduction in discomfort
Because fentanyl work so quickly and powerfully, Lonafen can provide relief when pain spikes suddenly, even in the face of ongoing opioid treatment.
Who Is Lonafen For?
Doctors prescribe Lonafen for:
- Adults with cancer-related breakthrough pain
- Patients who are already using opioids (such as morphine or oxycodone)
- Individuals who are not sensitive to high-strength opioid medicines
Not for:
- Patients with mild pain
- Opioid-naïve individuals
- Non-cancer pain (in most cases)
- Children
How to Take Lonafen (Dosage)
Lonafen should always be administered as directed by your doctor. Amount of dose differs from patient to patient owing to the difference in opiate tolerance pain levels and medical history.
General Dosage Guidelines
- Never begin higher than the starting dose
- Place the buccal film against your cheek
- DO NOT chew, swallow or cut the film
- Film is disintegrating in 15–30 minutes
- You can drink water once paste begins dissolving.
Important Rules
- Never take more than prescribed
- Do not use two membranes unless directed by your doctor
- A sleeping pill or alcohol should not be taken
- Use a second dose after the time recommended has passed.
Lonafen has been indicated for the treatment of breakthrough episodes, not for persistent pain control.
Possible Side Effects of Lonafen
As with all potent opioids, Lonafen may cause common and serious side effects.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Sleepiness
- Flushing or warmth
These are likely to get better as your body becomes used to the medicine.
Serious Side Effects (Call a Doctor Immediately)
- Difficulty breathing
- Extreme drowsiness
- Slow heart rate
- Confusion or hallucinations
- Chest pain
- Severe allergic reactions
- Loss of consciousness
Since fentanyl causes breathing to slow, problems with respiratory (breathing) ability should be considered an emergency; if such difficulty is encountered, do not hesitate to call for medical help immediately.
Who Should Avoid Lonafen?
Lonafen should NOT be used if you:
- Are not opioid-tolerant
- Have severe breathing disorders
- Have uncontrolled asthma
- Use alcohol or sedative drugs
- Are pregnant without medical supervision
- Have a past of drug misuse or addiction
Those with liver or kidney issues should also discuss risks with their doctor.
Lonafen Overdose Risks
Fentanyl overdose can be life-threatening. It slows breathing, and can lead to respiratory failure.
Symptoms of Overdose
- Very slow breathing
- Blue or cold skin
- Extreme sleepiness
- Gasping for air
- Unable to speak or wake up
- Seizures
That needs emergency medical attention!
How to Store Lonafen Safely
Due to the fact Lonafen is a potent opioid, proper storage is key.
- Not suitable for children’s hands Keep away from baby and child.
- Store at room temperature
- Store it in a cool dry place out of the humidity and heat
- Dispose used films properly (as recommended by a doctor)
- Do not give this medicine to other people.
Opioid drugs are both dangerous and illegal to share or sell.
Precautions Before Using Lonafen
Tell your doctor if you have:
- Breathing issues
- Heart disease
- Mental health conditions
- A history of addiction
- Kidney or liver disease
- Sleep apnea
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding plans
Your physician may need to change the dose or recommend other therapies based on your health status.
Is Lonafen Addictive?
Yes. Fentanyl can cause:
- Physical dependence
- Psychological dependence
- Withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
This is why you should only take Lonafen under close medical supervision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Lonafen used for?
It is indicated for treatment of breakthrough cancer pain in adults who have developed tolerance to opioid therapy.
2. Is Lonafen safe for regular pain?
No. It is not for mild or occasional pain. It is for cancer patients who are already opioid-tolerant.
3. How do I take Lonafen?
Film – Put the film in your cheek and let it melt. Do not chew or swallow it.
4. Can Lonafen cause addiction?
Yes. Fentanyl is an extremely high risk opioid, so addiction and dependence can develop.
5. Is Lonafen safe during pregnancy?
Not advisable unless your doctor judges that benefits outweigh risks.
6. Is it safe to consume alcohol while taking Lonafen?
Absolutely not. Alcohol raises the risk of breathing problems and overdose dramatically.
7. How fast does Lonafen work?
Patients typically experience relief within 15–30 minutes.
8. What if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical help immediately. Fentanyl overdose can be fatal.
