What is Remifentanil?
Remifentanil is an opioid drug that is used to alleviate or reduce discomfort during and following the procedure as well as other surgical procedures. Remifentanil can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline.
Side effects of Remifentanil
Contact a medical professional immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that are warning signs of an allergic response, like hives, trouble breathing, and swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or face. Opioid medicines may slow or stop breathing, and even death could occur. Anyone who cares for you should seek immediate medical care if you suffer from prolonged breathing, pauses in your breathing, blue-colored lips, or if it is difficult to get up.
Your health care providers will monitor any negative side effects that you experience, including:
- Breath that is shallow and ceases when you are sleeping.
- Heart rate, either fast or high.
- Muscles stiff.
- Low blood pressure (severe weakness and lightheadedness).
- Serotonin-related syndrome: hallucinations, agitation, rapid heart rate, fever, and muscle stiffness. It can also cause loss of coordination, twitching, nausea, and diarrhea.
Breathing problems that are serious can be more common in older adults and those who are weak or suffer from an underlying condition called wasting syndrome, as well as chronic respiratory conditions.
Common adverse effects of remifentanil could include:
- Breathing slowly.
- Rate of heartbeat slow.
- Stiffness in the muscles; muscle stiffness.
- Low blood pressure.
This is not an exhaustive list of probable adverse effects; more may occur. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Before you take this drug.
You shouldn't be treated with remifentanil if you are sensitive to it.
Speak to your doctor if you are ever diagnosed with:
- Breathing issues, sleep apnea.
- A head injury, brain tumor, or seizure.
- Issues with your gallbladder or pancreas.
- Alcohol dependence or addiction to drugs.
- If you've used alcohol, tranquilizers, sedatives, or any other opioid medication.
- If you've used an MAO inhibitor within the past 14 days, including isocarboxazid and linezolid, as well as the methylene blue injection or tranylcypromine.
Remifentanil taken during the last stages of pregnancy could cause adverse reactions in the infant, including severe sleepiness and breathing issues. The baby's breathing and heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, and other vital indicators are closely watched. Talk to a doctor before taking opioids if you are nursing. Tell your doctor when you experience severe fatigue or a slow breathing rate during breastfeeding.
How to take Remifentanil?
Addiction, overdose, and death can result from the misuse of opioid medications.
Remifentanil is injected into the vein by a healthcare doctor. Remifentanil is usually administered via an infusion linked to a pump, which releases the proper dose of medication, ensuring continuous relief from pain during and following the procedure. Your blood pressure, breathing, kidney function, oxygen levels, and many other vital indicators will be closely monitored. You could be prescribed alternative pain medication to take after the remifentanil treatment has been stopped. You should continue to use these medications for the duration your doctor has prescribed.
What happens if I miss a dose?
In a medical setting, you are unlikely to skip the dose.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of remifentanil could be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include a slow heart rate, intense tiredness, and muscle weakness. freezing and dry skin; eyes that are numb and fainting In a medical facility, an overdose could be taken care of quickly.
What should be avoided?
Don't drink or consume alcohol until at least 24 hours after the procedure. Dangerous side effects or even death may occur. Avoid driving and other hazardous activities until you understand the effects of remifentanil on your body. Drowsiness or dizziness can lead to accidents, falls, or even serious injuries.
Interaction With Other drugs
Other drugs may be hazardous when used in conjunction with opioids. Tell your doctor when you are using:
- Other opioid medications.
- A benzodiazepine-based sedative, such as Valium, Klonopin, or Xanax.
- Sleep medication, muscle relaxers, and other drugs that can make you sleepy.
- Medications that alter serotonin levels, like antidepressants and stimulants. They also include medications to treat migraines and Parkinson's disease.
This list is not comprehensive. There are many drugs that can affect Remifentanil, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. The interactions of all potential drugs are included in this list.
