Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Rapifen, Alfenta, Alfenil
Alfentanil is a synthetic opioid analgesic belonging to the phenylpiperidine class. It is a potent, short-acting analgesic used primarily in anesthesia to provide pain relief during and immediately after surgery. Alfentanil acts as a μ-opioid receptor agonist, mimicking the effects of endogenous endorphins to reduce pain perception. Its rapid onset and short duration of action make it suitable for short procedures and as an adjunct to general anesthesia. Alfentanil also finds use in intensive care settings for sedation.
Short-acting opioid analgesic for surgical anesthesia, sedation in intensive care, and as an adjunct to general anesthesia.
Alfentanil can cause respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening. Appropriate monitoring and resuscitation equipment should be readily available when alfentanil is administered.
Outcome:
Increased respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension
Mechanism:
Additive CNS depressant effects
Outcome:
Bradycardia and hypotension
Mechanism:
Synergistic effects on heart rate and blood pressure
Outcome:
Slightly reduced alfentanil absorption
Mechanism:
Changes in gastric pH
Most likely new formulation: Extended-release formulation for chronic pain management (Year: 2026, 30% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and clinical trial data, there is a low (<5%) likelihood of any major regulatory changes in the next 2 years.
Opioid Analgesic, Narcotic
Phenylpiperidine