According to the WHO pain ladder, what medication is generally used for breakthrough cancer pain?

The use of a Fentanyl patch for breakthrough cancer pain aligns with the World Health Organization (WHO) analgesic ladder, which categorizes cancer pain management into three levels based on the severity of the pain. Breakthrough pain is typically defined as a temporary flare of pain that occurs despite stable chronic pain management.

Fentanyl, an opioid analgesic, is particularly effective in managing severe pain that is not adequately controlled by non-opioid medications or lower-potency opioids. The Fentanyl patch provides continuous pain relief and is particularly advantageous for individuals who experience episodes of breakthrough pain, as it can deliver a steady level of medication.

In contrast, NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and corticosteroids tend to be used for managing mild to moderate pain or as adjuncts in more complex pain management regimens. They do not provide the potent analgesic effect required for breakthrough cancer pain, specifically when the pain is severe. Thus, the Fentanyl patch is considered the most appropriate and effective choice for managing breakthrough cancer pain within the WHO pain management framework.