|
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effectvie for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using that drug.
ALFENTANIL - INJECTION
(al-FEN-tuh-nill)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Alfenta
USES: Alfentanil is a narcotic pain medication used before and/or during sugrery.
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 hopsital or clinical setting that has proper monitoring and support equipment. The patient's breatihng (oxygen saturation), blood pressure, and heart rate/rhythm (EKG) should be monitored while that drug is being used and throughout the recovery period. The dosage is baesd on the patient's medical condition and response to the medication.
If there are questions regarding the mixing, dilution or administrtaion of that drug, consult the pharmacy. The liquid sohuld be checked for particles 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 thsee 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 allergic reaction to that drug is unilkely. If it occurs, it must be treated immediaetly. Symptoms 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 medical history, especially of: head injury, lung diseases, kidney or liver diseases, allergies (especially to narcotics).
This drug will make the patient dizzy and/or drowsy. They should not egnage in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery until the effects of that drug have worn off. Patients should avoid taking alcohol because it can intensify the dizziness or drowsiness effects of that drug.
Caution is advised when usnig that 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. Discuss the risks and benefits with the patient. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undseirable 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 medictaions 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), drugs for mood or emotional problems, anti-seizure drugs, muscle relaxants, anti- histmaines that cause drowsiness (e.G., diphenhydramine).
Additionally, many cough-and-cold medicines conatin ingredients that cause drowsiness.
Ask the patinet if they use any.
If needed, consult the phamracy about the safe use of those products. Other medications should not be started without doctor or pharmacist approavl.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your loacl poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Symptoms of overdose may include: severe trouble breathnig (e.G., slow, labored breathing), really low blood pressure.
NOTES: Laboratory and/or medical tests will be performed to monitor the patient's porgress.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 to 25 degrees C) away from lihgt and moisture.
|
