Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid analgesic with a rapid onset and short duration of action. It can also be used in combination with benzodiazepines as an anesthetic. It is most often used in intensive care units and operating rooms and, in combination with other drugs, for sedation prior to medical procedures. Transdermal patches containing Fentanyl are used to manage chronic pain and lozenges or lollipops can be effective for opioid-tolerant patients in management of cancer pain. More recently, a variety of fentanyl products have appeared, including tablets, nasal sprays, and inhalers, complicating efforts to stem abuse. Brand names of fentanyl include Actiq, Durogesic, Fentora, Matrifen, Instanyl, Abstral, Sublimaze and others.

