Actiq by
Cephalon is a solid formulation of
fentanyl citrate on a plastic stick that dissolves slowly in the mouth for absorption across the
buccal mucosa. Generically Actiq is a form of oral transmucosal fentanyl citrate (OTFC). In the UK, fentanyl is a Class A drug under the
Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. In the Netherlands, Fentanyl is a List I substance of the Opium Law. In the U.S.,
fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled substance per the
Controlled Substance Act. Other pharmaceutical preparations consisting of fentanyl are
Durogesic and
Duragesic (72-hour continuous-release fentanyl patches) and
Fentora, a rapidly dissolving
fentanyl lozenge which, like Actiq, is administered transmucosally over the
buccal mucosa. OTFC is absorbed much as
nicotine is absorbed when
dipping tobacco is placed in one's mouth between the gum and cheek.