FRCA Notes

Sufentanil

  • Sufentanil is a synthetic phenylpiperidine derivative

Presentation

  • It is a colourless solution containing 500μg/ml or 5mg/ml alfentanil

Uses

  • As an IV bolus for short-acting analgesia
  • As a continuous infusion (TCI) using the Gepts model

  • A potent MOP receptor agonist, with some DOP effect
  • Extremely potent; 5-10x as potent as fentanyl

Absorption

  • Slower onset than alfentanil

Distribution

  • Volume of distribution: 2.5 - 3L/kg
  • 91% protein bound

  • Context-sensitive half-time at:
    • 1hr - 25mins
    • 2hrs - 30mins
    • 8hrs - 40mins

Metabolism

  • Metabolised in the liver and small intestine
  • Undergoes oxidative N- and O-dealkylation to inactive metabolites

Excretion

  • Clearance 10-15ml/kg/min