About alfentanil
Short-acting opioid pain medicine
Used for
- Pain relief during surgery and other procedures
- Supplementary anaesthesia during general anaesthesia
Usual adult dose
Given by injection or infusion by an anaesthesia professional; dose is adjusted to the procedure and patient response.
Usual dose in children
Doses are weight-based and specialist-directed; use varies by age and procedure.
Common side effects
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Low blood pressure or slow heartbeat
Important warnings
- Can cause life-threatening breathing problems, especially with other sedatives.
- Use only with trained staff and equipment to support breathing.
- May cause dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal with repeated use.
- Older people and those with breathing problems may be more sensitive.
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly needed; it may affect the newborn’s breathing if given near delivery.
Breastfeeding
May enter breast milk; seek clinical guidance before breastfeeding after use.
Interactions
- Benzodiazepines, alcohol, and other sedatives increase sedation and breathing risks.
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors can increase alfentanil effects.
- Other opioids increase breathing suppression.
- CYP3A4 inducers may reduce alfentanil effects.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.