Remifentanil

It is a narcotic pain reliever. It works by dulling the pain perception center in the brain. It is used during surgery.

Indications

Analgesia during induction of anaesthesia, Analgesia during maintenance of anaesthesia in ventilated patients, continuation of analgesia into immediate postoperative period, Analgesia and sedation in ventilated patients under intensive care.

Dosage

Intravenous; dosage according to indication.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity to fentanyl group, intrathecal or epidural route.

Special Precautions

If used during labour, respiratory depression can be seen in newborn. Paediatric: Can be used. Pregnancy: Category C; use if risk to fetus outweighs benefits. Lactation: Not known if secreted in milk. Elderly: Sensitivity is increased, so use with lower dose.

Side Effects

Bradycardia, hypotension, muscle rigidity, post operative shivering, apnoea, hypertension, hypoxia, pruritus, constipation, aches, sedation, nausea, vomiting.

Drug Interactions

IV anaesthetics, benzodiazepines, cardiac, depressants (e.g. b-blockers, calcium channel blockers).