Remifentanil (By injection)
rem-i-FEN-ta-nil
Relieves pain during and after surgery or other medical procedures.
Drug classes
Analgesic, Anesthetic Adjunct (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Remifentanil is used to relieve pain during and after surgery or other medical procedures. It is also used with other medicines (e.g., isoflurane, propofol, midazolam, thiopental, Diprivan®) just before or during an operation to help the anesthetic work better.
Remifentanil belongs to the group of medicines known as narcotic analgesics (pain medicines). It works by acting on the central nervous system (CNS) or brain to relieve pain.
Remifentanil is to be administered only by or under the immediate supervision of your doctor.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine. You will receive this medicine in a hospital or surgery center.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.
When Not To Use
You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to remifentanil or to similar medicines, such as fentanyl, Actiq®, Sublimaze®, or Duragesic®.
Warnings
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have lung disease, heart rhythm problems (slow heartbeat), or low blood pressure.
Tell your doctor right away if you have bluish lips or skin; chest pain; difficulty with breathing; a fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse; shortness of breath; or muscle stiffness after receiving this medicine.
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur with this medicine, especially when you get up from a lying or sitting position suddenly. Getting up slowly may help. If this continues or gets worse, check with your doctor.
This medicine may cause constipation, especially with long-term use. Ask your doctor if you should use a laxative to prevent and treat constipation.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blue lips, fingernails, or skin.
Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat or pulse.
Lightheadedness or fainting.
Muscle stiffness in your neck, chest, hands, or legs.
Problems with your vision.
Trouble breathing or chest tightness.
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Agitation or dizziness.
Mild skin rash or itching.
Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or lump under your skin where the needle is placed.
Shivering.
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Ultiva
There may be other brand names for this medicine.