Alfentanil Basic Information

Alfentanil is a potent but short-acting synthetic opioid ***gesic used primarily for anesthesia in surgical procedures. It is an ***ogue of fentanyl, exhibiting approximately one-fourth to one-tenth the potency of fentanyl, but with a quicker onset of action and shorter duration. Due to its low pKa of about 6.5, a significant proportion of alfentanil remains uncharged at physiological pH, facilitating rapid penetration through the blood-brain barrier.

Alfentanil is primarily metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 isoenzyme CYP3A4, leading to inactive metabolites that are excreted in urine. It is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States.

Questions and Answers

What is alfentanil used for?
Alfentanil is used as an ***gesic adjunct during induction and maintenance of general anesthesia.

How is alfentanil administered?
Alfentanil is administered intravenously for fast onset and precise control of dosage.

What are the side effects of alfentanil?
Common side effects include respiratory depression, itching, and nausea.

How is alfentanil metabolized?
Alfentanil is metabolized in the liver primarily by the CYP3A4 enzyme.