DRUG STUDY

S. Omal. Remifentanil

Generic Name:

Remifentanil

Brandname:

Ultiva

Classification:

Analgesic

Narcotic (Opiate agonist)

General anesthesia

Mode of Administration:

ULTIVA should be administered at an infusion rate of 0.5 to 1 mcg/kg/min with a hypnotic or volatile
agent for the induction of anesthesia. If endotracheal intubation is to occur less than 8 minutes after the
start of the infusion of ULTIVA, then an initial dose of 1 mcg/kg may be administered over 30 to 60
seconds.

Mechanism of Action:

Synthetic, potent narcotic agonist

analgesic that is rapidly metabolized; therefore respiratory depression is of shorter duration when
discontinued. Used as the analgesic component of an anesthesia regime.

Indication:

As an analgesic agent for use during the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia for inpatient
and 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
caresetting.

As an analgesic component of monitored anesthesia care in adult patients.

Side effect:

Blurred vision
chest pain or discomfort

confusion

difficult or troubled breathing

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

irregular, fast or slow, or shallow breathing

lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

muscle stiffness or tightness

pale or blue lips, fingernails, or skin

shortness of breath

Adverse Effect:

(≥1%) B1%) Body as a Whole: Muscle rigidity, shivering. CNS: Dizziness, headache. CV: Hypotension,
hypertension, bradycardia. GI: Nausea, vomiting. Respiratory: Respiratory depression, apnea. Skin:
Pruritus.

Contraindication:

Hypersensitivity to acetaminophen or phenacetin. Acute liver failure has been associated with doses that
exceed 4000 mg per day.

Special precaution:

Head injuries, increased intracranial pressure; debilitated, morbid obesity, poor-risk patients; COPD,
other respiratory problems, bradyarrhythmia; older adults; pregnancy (category C), lactation.

Safety in labor and delivery has not been demonstrated.

Drug interaction:

Alcohol and other CNS DEPRESSANTS potentiate effects; MAO INHIBITORS may precipitate hypertensive
crisis.

Nursing responsibilities:

Explain the use of drug to the patient.

Monitor vital signs during postoperative period; observe for and immediately report any S&S of
respiratory distress or respiratory depression, or skeletal and thoracic muscle rigidity and weakness.

Monitor for adequate postoperative analgesia.

Insert picture here: