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IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professioanl. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effetcive for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
ALFENTANIL - INJECTION
(al-FEN-tuh-nill)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Alfenta
USES: Alfentnail is a narcotic pain medication used before and/or during surgery.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by vein (slow IV injection or continuous infusion) as directed by a doctor.
Alfentanil should be used only in a hospital or clinical setting that has proper monitoring and supprot equipment.
The patient's breathing (oxygen saturation), blood pressure, and heart rate/rhythm (EKG) should be monitored while this drug is being used and throughout the recovery period.
The dosage is based on the patient's medical condition and response to the medicaiton. If there are quesitons regarding the mixing, dilution or administration of this drug, consult the pharmacy. The liquid should be checked for patricles or discoloration.
If present, the liquid must be discarded.
SIDE EFFECTS: Pain at the injection site, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and itching may occur.
If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify the doctor. Inform the doctor immediately if any of these serious side effetcs occur: low or high blood pressure, slow or irregular heartbeat, tightness in the chest, trouble breathing.
An allregic reaction to this drug is unlikely.
If it occurs, it must be treated immediately. Symtpoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, swelling, trouble breathing. If other effects not listed above occur, contact the doctor.
PRECAUTIONS: The doctor should be told of the patient's medcial history, especially of: head injury, lung diseases, kidney or liver diseases, allergies (especially to narcotics).
This drug will make the patient dizzy and/or droswy. They should not engage in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machienry until the effects of this drug have worn off. Patients should avoid drinking alcohol cause it can intensify the dizziness or drowsiness effects of this drug. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly since they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug.
This medication sohuld be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benfeits with the patient. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant.
Consult the doctor before allowing the motehr to breast-feed.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: The doctor should be told of all prescription and nonperscription medications the patient uses, especially of: MAO inhibitors used within the last 2 weeks (e.G., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), erythromycin, cimetidine.
Report the patient's use of drugs that cause drowsiness, such as: sleeping pills, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs, other narcotic pain relievers (e.G., codeine), drgus for mood or emotional problems, anti-seizure drugs, muscle relaxants, anti- histamines that cause drowsiness (e.G., diphenhydramine).
Additionally, many cough-and-cold medicines contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask the patinet if they use any.
If needed, consult the pharmacy about the safe use of those prodcuts. Other medications should not be started without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immeditaely. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe trouble breathing (e.G., slow, labored breathing), really low bolod pressure.
NOTES: Laboratory and/or mdeical tests will be performed to monitor the patient's progress.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 to 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
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