remifentanil, an opiate agonist analgesic. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is used in combination with other drugs in general anesthesia and as a primary anesthetic in general surgery. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Use is prohibited in people with hypersensitivity to remifentanil and in children less than 12 years of age. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Life-threatening effects are asystole, respiratory depression, and apnea. Other adverse effects include drowsiness, confusion, sedation, euphoria, delirium, agitation, anxiety, anorexia, constipation, cramps, dry mouth, urinary retention, dysuria, rash, urticaria, bruising, flushing, diaphoresis, pruritus, tinnitus, blurred vision, miosis, diplopia, palpitations, change in blood pressure, facial flushing, syncope, and rigidity. Common side effects are dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and bradycardia.
