Remifentanil

What it is used for

Remifentanil hydrochloride (HCl) for injection is indicated for intravenous (IV) administration:

• As an analgesic agent for use during the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia for inpatient and outpatient procedures.
• For continuation as an analgesic into the immediate postoperative period in adult patients under the direct supervision of an anesthesia practitioner in a postoperative anesthesia care unit or intensive care setting.
• As an analgesic component of monitored anesthesia care in adult patients.

Side effects, and when to stop

The following serious adverse reactions are described, or described in greater detail, in other sections:

• Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
• Respiratory Depression in Spontaneously Breathing Patients
• Interactions with Benzodiazepines or other CNS Depressants
• Serotonin Syndrome
• Skeletal Muscle Rigidity
• Bradycardia
• Hypotension
• Biliary Tract Disease
• Seizures

Who should not take it

Remifentanil HCl is contraindicated:

• For epidural or intrathecal administration due to the presence of glycine in the formulation.
• In patients with hypersensitivity to remifentanil (e.g., anaphylaxis).

Other medicines and interactions

Table 18 includes clinically significant drug interactions with remifentanil HCl. Table 18: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Remifentanil HCl