Lazanda

Dear Wayne:

Lazanda is a newer rapid-acting fentanyl product that is indicated for the management of breakthrough pain in adult cancer patients who are already receiving and tolerant to opioids.

Breakthrough pain is pain that comes on suddenly for short periods of time. It is common in cancer patients who often have a background level of pain that is well-controlled by medications, to periodically have pain that "breaks through" the medication. The characteristics of breakthrough cancer pain vary from person to person, with the typical episode lasting 30-60 minutes.

Lazanda is delivered nasally to provide rapid absorption of fentanyl. Lazanda uses a bioadhesive technology to form a gel inside the nose so that the fentanyl is absorbed by simple diffusion through a gel matrix. Lazanda reaches peak blood levels in 15-21 minutes.

Short-acting opioids like hydrocodone take an hour to reach peak blood levels delaying pain relief and the hanging around in the body for 4-6 hours, whcih is longer than the typical episode of breakthrough pain.

In clinical studies, pain relief started within 5 minutes of dosing with Lazanda and was maintained for at least 60 minutes.

Your physician is the best source of information regarding the selection of appropriate medications. The company that makes Lazanda can provide additional information. Check the web for coupons to reduce out of pocket costs.