Fentanyl is considered to be an effective, transdermal treatment of chronic,
cancer, and noncancer
pain. This noninterventional, clinical practice-based study, on 426 patients attending 42 practices, assessed a proprietary, Aloe vera-containing, transdermal
fentanyl matrix patch (Fentavera), for its
analgesic effects, patients' quality of life (QoL) effects, tolerability, and adhesiveness. Study outcomes were mean changes from baseline of patient (11-point scales) and physician (5-point scales) ratings. After 1 and 2 months treatment, there were significant (P < 0.0001) decreases in patients' ratings of
pain intensity, and impairment of walking, general activity, sleep quality, and QoL. For each parameter, the patient response rate was >30% at 2 months (response = 2-point decrease on 11-point rating scale). In a large majority of patients, the physicians rated the matrix patch as good or very good for
analgesic effect, systemic and local tolerance, and adhesiveness. There were 30 adverse events in 4.2% of patients and
analgesic comedications were reduced during treatment compared to before treatment. It is concluded, from this population-based data, that the proprietary, transdermal
fentanyl matrix patch is effective and safe for
chronic pain management in clinical practice, with significant positive
analgesic and QoL effects, while being well tolerated and exhibiting good or very good adhesiveness.