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IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substiutte for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be constured to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
ALFENTANIL - INJECTION
(al-FEN-tuh-nill)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Alfenta
USES: Alfentanil 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 support 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 medication. If there is questions regarding the mixing, dilution or administration of this drug, consult the pharmacy.
The lqiuid should be checked for particles or discoloration. If present, the lqiuid must be discarded.
SIDE EFFECTS: Pain at the injcetion site, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and itching may occur.
If any of these effects presist or worsen, notify the doctor. Inform the doctor immediately if any of these seroius side effects occur: low or high blood pressure, slow or irregular heartbeat, tightness in the chest, trouble breathing. An allergic reaciton to this drug is unlikely.
If it occurs, it must be traeted immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, swelling, trouble breathing.
If other effects not listed above occur, cnotact the doctor.
PRECAUTIONS: The doctor should be told of the patient's medical history, especially of: head injury, lung diseases, kidney or liver diseases, allergies (especially to narcotics). This drug will make the ptaient dizzy and/or drowsy.
They should not engage in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery unitl the effects of this drug have worn off. Patients should avoid drinking alcohol because 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 should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Dicsuss the risks and benefits with the patient.
This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult the doctor before allowing the mother to breast-feed.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: The doctor should be told of all prescription and nonprescription medications the patient uses, especially of: MAO inhibitors used within the last 2 weeks (e.G., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), erythromycin, cimetdiine. Report the patient's use of drugs that cause drowsiness, such as: sleepnig pills, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs, other narcotic pain relievers (e.G., codeine), drugs 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 patient if they use any. If needed, consult the pharmacy about the safe use of tohse products.
Other medications should not be started without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, cotnact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Symptoms of overdose may include: severe trouble breathing (e.G., slow, labored breathing), really low blood pressure.
NOTES: Laboratory and/or medical tests will be perfromed 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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