[Transdermal fentanyl patch for the treatment of chronic intractable pain].

The purpose of the treatment of chronic non-cancer pain is the improvement of the patient's quality of life, not the complete alleviation of pain. In Japan transdermal fentanyl patch can be used for the treatment of chronic intractable pain including cancer pain and chronic non-cancer pain. In prescribing transdermal fentanyl patch for patients with chronic non-cancer pain, cares should be focused on the selection of the patients and the periodic and continuous observation of analgesic effect and side effects. Patients with mental disorders need the consultation with specialists. In most cases side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation and sedation can be well tolerated. However, respiratory suppression or over sedation would also occur and such side effects can sometimes be fatal. Furthermore, long term effects on endocrine and immune systems have not been clarified yet. Proper prescription of opioids during a limited period of time is definitely the primary concern of medical professionals.