About sufentanil
Potent opioid anesthetic and analgesic
Used for
- Pain relief during surgery and other procedures
- Supplement to general anesthesia
- Epidural pain relief during labor
Usual adult dose
Given by trained clinicians; doses vary by procedure and route. Typical intravenous doses are measured in micrograms.
Usual dose in children
Specialist dosing varies by age, weight, procedure, and route; used only under close medical supervision.
Common side effects
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Low blood pressure or slow heart rate
Important warnings
- Can cause life-threatening breathing suppression, especially with sedatives or alcohol.
- Use only in monitored settings with staff able to support breathing.
- Can cause dependence, misuse, and overdose.
- May cause chest wall rigidity, particularly with rapid intravenous administration.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically necessary. Opioid use near delivery can cause newborn breathing problems or withdrawal.
Breastfeeding
May cause infant sedation or breathing problems; seek clinical guidance before breastfeeding after use.
Interactions
- Benzodiazepines, sleeping medicines, alcohol, and other opioids increase sedation and breathing risks.
- Some medicines that affect CYP3A4 can increase or prolong effects.
- Serotonergic medicines may increase the rare risk of serotonin syndrome.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.