Category:

• Analgesic

Description:

• Synthetic opiate agonist analgesic

Indications:

• Analgesic supplement to anesthesia

• General anesthesia (in combination with oxygen and skeletal muscle relaxant)

Contraindications:

• Patients with impaired respiratory function.  

Precautions:

• Pregnancy Category C

• Use with caution due to respiratory depression.  Must have facilities and trained personnel for intubation if necessary.

• Monitor patient’s vital signs.

• Use with caution with other CNS depressive medications.  

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• Respiratory depression

• Skeletal muscle rigidity

• Hypotension (7%)

Dosage:

Administered by IV injection

General anesthesia for minor and painful procedures:

Adult:

• Initial: 1-2 micrograms/kg, with nitrous oxide and oxygen

• Additional doses of 10-20 microgram may be administered depending on anesthesia level

General anesthesia for major and complicated procedures:

Adult:

• Initial: 2-8 micrograms/kg, with nitrous oxide and oxygen

• Additional doses of 25-50 microgram may be administered depending on anesthesia level

Bureau of Medicine and Surgery
Department of the Navy
2300 E Street NW
Washington, D.C
20372-5300

Operational Medicine
 Health Care in Military Settings
CAPT Michael John Hughey, MC, USNR
NAVMED P-5139
  January 1, 2001