Subsys

Subsys (fentanyl) is a controlled substance that has a risk for addiction and misuse. Take the medication exactly as prescribed. Don't change the dose or how often you take it without talking to your provider first.

Opioids like Subsys (fentanyl) can cause dangerously slow breathing, which can be life-threatening. This can happen to anyone at recommended doses. But the risk is greatest when you first start treatment or if your dose goes up.

Take opioid medications exactly as prescribed. Taking too much or taking it more often than prescribed can lead to an overdose. In addition, it can be especially dangerous if a child accidentally ingests opioid medications, such as Subsys (fentanyl). Store your medication out of reach from children, pets, or visitors to prevent accidental exposure or overdose.

Opioids can cause extreme sleepiness and lower your ability to think, react, and focus. Don't drink alcohol or take other medications that can cause sleepiness or "brain fog" (e.g., benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, sleep medications) with Subsys (fentanyl). Doing so can worsen these side effects. Make sure you know how your opioid medication affects you before driving a car or doing activities that require your concentration. Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you feel too sleepy from taking Subsys (fentanyl).

Long-term use of opioids during pregnancy can cause your unborn baby to become dependent on the medication. This is because the opioid (fentanyl) can pass through the placenta to your unborn baby. Once your baby is born, they can experience withdrawal symptoms, such as high-pitched crying, poor feeding and sucking behavior, trembling, abnormal sleep patterns, and seizures. This condition is called neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated in time. Let your healthcare provider know if you've used Subsys (fentanyl) or other opioids during pregnancy or if you notice these symptoms in your baby.

Tell your providers about all of the medications you're taking or planning to take with opioids like Subsys (fentanyl). Taking certain medications with opioids or changing your medication routine can raise your risk for dangerous side effects. Benzodiazepines, sedatives, and alcohol can worsen opioid side effects like slow breathing or severe sleepiness and can be life-threatening. In addition, taking opioids like Subsys (fentanyl) with certain antidepressants can also raise your risk of serotonin syndrome, a rare but serious side effect that can lead to fast heart rate, sweating, and muscle problems.

Opioids like Subsys (fentanyl) can cause physical dependence when they're taken for a long time. This means that your body relies on the medication to function. You might experience withdrawal if you stop taking the medication suddenly or lower your dose too fast.

Subsys (fentanyl) and other opioids can cause extremely low blood pressure. Your blood pressure might drop suddenly when you stand from a sitting or lying down position. This can lead to dizziness and fainting. To avoid falling, get up slowly if you've been sitting or lying down. Talk to your healthcare provider if dizziness or lightheadedness doesn't go away.

Some people taking opioids like Subsys (fentanyl) had low adrenal hormone levels. This might be more likely to happen after taking opioids for longer than 1 month. Symptoms include tiredness, dizziness, weakness, not feeling hungry, nausea, and vomiting. Let your provider know if you have these symptoms. If your adrenal hormone levels are too low, you might need to stop Subsys (fentanyl) and be treated with corticosteroids.