Remifentanil

(Ultiva)

Analgesics & Pain Modulators

Remifentanil is an ultra-short-acting synthetic opioid metabolized by nonspecific esterases, providing predictable termination regardless of infusion duration. Its ester structure allows rapid hydrolysis in blood and tissues, making it ideal for titratable analgesia during procedures. Remifentanil produces intense analgesia with rapid respiratory depression that resolves quickly after discontinuation. The drug is particularly valuable for neurosurgery, cardiac surgery, and other cases requiring precise hemodynamic control. Lack of accumulation makes it suitable for ICU sedation, though transition to longer-acting opioids is required before discontinuation.