Consumer medicine information

Alfentanil-hameln Injection

Alfentanil

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

Alfentanil-hameln

Active ingredient

Alfentanil

Schedule

S8

 

Consumer medicine information (CMI) leaflet

Please read this leaflet carefully before you start using Alfentanil-hameln Injection.

SUMMARY CMI

ALFENTANIL-HAMELN INJECTION

Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) summary

The full CMI on the next page has more details. If you are worried about using this medicine, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

WARNING: Important safety information is provided in a boxed warning in the full CMI. Read before using this medicine.

1. Why am I being given Alfentanil-hameln?

Alfentanil-hameln contains the active ingredient alfentanil hydrochloride. Alfentanil-hameln is used to relieve pain and produce anaesthesia.

For more information, see Section 1. Why am I being given Alfentanil-hameln? in the full CMI.

2. What should I know before I am given Alfentanil-hameln?

Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to alfentanil, other opioids or any of the ingredients listed at the end of the CMI.

For more information, see Section 2. What should I know before I am given Alfentanil-hameln? in the full CMI.

3. What if I am taking other medicines?

Some medicines, including medicines you can buy without a prescription from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food store, may interfere with Alfentanil-hameln and affect how it works.

A list of these medicines is in Section 3. What if I am taking other medicines? in the full CMI.

4. How do will I be given Alfentanil-hameln?

  • Your doctor will decide the appropriate dose for you.
  • Alfentanil-hameln must only be administered by injection by a specially trained anaesthetist.

Follow the instructions given to you by your doctor or pharmacist exactly. More instructions can be found in Section 4. How will I be given Alfentanil-hameln? in the full CMI.

5. What should I know while using Alfentanil-hameln?

Things you should do
  • Remind any doctor, dentist or pharmacist you visit that you are using Alfentanil-hameln
  • Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines that you use to help you relax, anything that contains alcohol (like cough syrup) or other medicines that treat pain
  • If you become pregnant while being given this medicine, tell your doctor immediately
Driving or using machines
  • Alfentanil-hameln may affect your alertness and ability to drive. Therefore you should not drive or operate machinery until your doctor advises that you can.
Drinking alcohol
  • You must not drink alcohol while being given Alfentanil-hameln
  • Tell your doctor about your consumption of alcohol and follow the doctor's advice.

For more information, see Section 5. What should I know while using Alfentanil-hameln? in the full CMI.

6. Are there any side effects?

Alfentanil-hameln injection may cause nausea, dizziness and/or drowsiness, and be habit forming if taken frequently or over long periods.

For more information, including what to do if you have any side effects, see Section 6. Are there any side effects? in the full CMI.

WARNING

Limitations of use
Alfentanil-hameln should only be used when your doctor decides that other treatment options are not able to effectively manage your pain or you cannot tolerate them.

Hazardous and harmful use
Alfentanil-hameln poses risks of abuse, misuse and addiction which can lead to overdose and death. Your doctor will monitor you regularly during treatment.

Life-threatening respiratory depression
Alfentanil-hameln can cause life-threatening or fatal breathing problems (slow, shallow, unusual or no breathing), even when used as recommended. These problems can occur at any time during use, but the risk is higher when first starting Alfentanil-hameln and after a dose increase, if you are older, or have an existing problem with your lungs. Your doctor will monitor you and change the dose as appropriate.

Use of other medicines while using Alfentanil-hameln
Using Alfentanil-hameln with other medicines that can make you feel drowsy such as sleeping tablets (eg. benzodiazepines), other pain relievers, antihistamines, antidepressants, antipsychotics, gabapentinoids (eg. gabapentin and pregabalin), cannabis and alcohol may result in severe drowsiness, decreased awareness, breathing problems, coma and death. Your doctor will minimise the dose and duration of use; and monitor you for signs and symptoms of breathing difficulties and sedation. You must not drink alcohol while using Alfentanil-hameln.



FULL CMI

ALFENTANIL-HAMELN INJECTION

Active ingredient(s): Alfentanil Hydrochloride


Consumer Medicine Information (CMI)

This leaflet provides important information about using Alfentanil-hameln. You should also speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you would like further information or if you have any concerns or questions about using Alfentanil-hameln.

All medicines have risks and benefits. Your doctor has weighed the risks of you being given Alfentanil-hameln against the benefits they expect it will have for you.

Where to find information in this leaflet:

1. Why am I being given Alfentanil-hameln?
2. What should I know before I am given Alfentanil-hameln?
3. What if I am taking other medicines?
4. How will I be given Alfentanil-hameln?
5. What should I know while being given Alfentanil-hameln?
6. Are there any side effects?
7. Product details

1. Why am I being given Alfentanil-hameln?

Alfentanil-hameln contains the active ingredient alfentanil hydrochloride. Alfentanil belongs to a group of medicines called opioid analgesics and works by changing the messages that are sent to the brain about pain.

Alfentanil-hameln is used to relieve pain and produce anaesthesia. It can be used as a premedication before an operation, or with a general anaesthetic during an operation.

Your doctor, however, may have prescribed it for another purpose, and will have explained why you are being given Alfentanil-hameln.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor carefully. They may differ from the information contained in this leaflet.

2. What should I know before I am given Alfentanil-hameln?

When you must not use it:

  • Alfentanil-hameln should not be used for pain relief after surgery has taken place.
  • Alfentanil-hameln should not be used if you have an allergy, intolerance or hypersensitivity to:
    - alfentanil
    - any ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet;
    - other opioid analgesics (pain killers), eg. morphine or pethidine.

Symptoms of an allergic or hypersensitivity reaction may include:

  • rash, itching or hives on the skin;
  • shortness of breath, wheezing or difficulty breathing;
  • swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body.

Alfentanil-hameln is not generally given to children under 12 years of age.

Alfentanil-hameln injection will only be used if the solution is clear, the package is undamaged and the use by (expiry) date marked on the pack has not passed.

Check with your doctor if you:

  • have allergies to any other medicines, foods, preservatives or dyes.
  • have or have had any medical conditions, especially the following:
    - problems with your breathing such as severe asthma, severe bronchitis or emphysema;
    - a history of fits or head injury;
    - under-active thyroid;
    - myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness);
    - heart problems;
    - liver or kidney problems;
    - overweight or obese.
  • or anyone in your family has ever abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or illegal drugs (“addiction”)
  • are a smoker
  • have ever had problems with your mood (depression, anxiety or a personality disorder) or have been treated by a psychiatrist for other mental illnesses

Tell your doctor if you take any medicine that slows down your reactions (CNS depressants), especially benzodiazepines or related drugs or have problems with alcohol.

It may not be safe for you to be given Alfentanil-hameln or you may be given a reduced dose if you have any of these conditions.

If you have not told your doctor about any of the above, tell them before you are given Alfentanil-hameln.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Tell your doctor if:

  • you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Your doctor will decide if you can take Alfentanil-hameln. It may affect your baby if it is given early in pregnancy or in the last weeks before your baby is due.
  • you are breastfeeding or wish to breastfeed. Alfentanil-hameln may be excreted in breast milk. Breastfeeding is not advisable for 24 hours after Alfentanil-hameln has been given.

Addiction

You can become addicted to Alfentanil-hameln even if you take it exactly as prescribed. Alfentanil-hameln may become habit forming causing mental and physical dependence. If abused it may become less able to reduce pain.

Dependence

Repeated use of Alfentanil-hameln may result in the drug being less effective (you become accustomed to it). It may also lead to dependence and abuse which may result in life-threatening overdose. If you have concern that you may become dependent on Alfentanil-hameln, it is important that you consult your doctor.

As with all other opioid containing products, your body may become used to you taking Alfentanil-hameln. Taking it may result in physical dependence. Physical dependence means that you may experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking Alfentanil-hameln suddenly, so it is important to take it exactly as directed by your doctor.

Tolerance

Tolerance to Alfentanil-hameln may develop, which means that the effect of the medicine may decrease. If this happens, more may be needed to maintain the same effect.

If this happens, your doctor may review the dose so that you get adequate pain relief.

Withdrawal

Continue taking your medicine for as long as your doctor tells you. If you stop having this medicine suddenly, your pain may worsen and you may experience some or all of the following withdrawal symptoms:

  • nervousness, restlessness, agitation, trouble sleeping or anxiety
  • body aches, weakness or stomach cramps
  • loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
  • increased heart rate, breathing rate or pupil size
  • watery eyes, runny nose, chills or yawning
  • increased sweating.

Alfentanil-hameln given to the mother during labour can cause breathing problems and signs of withdrawal in the newborn. Also, if women receive this drug during pregnancy, there is a risk that their newborn infants will experience neonatal withdrawal syndrome.

3. What if I am taking other medicines?

Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including medicines you can buy without a prescription from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food store.

Tell your doctor immediately and do not take Alfentanil-hameln if you are taking medicines for depression called Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) Inhibitors. These medicines must not be taken in the 14 days before Alfentanil-hameln is given.

Also tell your doctor if you are taking:

  • any anaesthetic agents such as propofol.
  • any medicine that slows down your reactions (CNS depressants) such as benzodiazepines or related drugs, sleeping pills, tranquillizers, medicines for mental disorders, alcohol, some illegal drugs.
    If you receive a strong pain killer or other CNS depressant after receiving Alfentanil-hameln during surgery, the dose of the pain killer or other CNS depressant may need to be lowered to reduce the risk of potentially serious side effects such as breathing difficulties, with slow or shallow breathing, severe drowsiness and decreased awareness, coma and death. Using opioids at the same time as drugs used to treat epilepsy, nerve pain or anxiety (gabapentin and pregabalin) increases the risk of opioid overdose, respiratory depression and may be life-threatening.
  • an antibiotic called erythromycin.
  • an antifungal called fluconazole, voriconazole, ketoconazole or itraconazole.
  • a medicine for the stomach called cimetidine.
  • an antiviral called ritonavir.
  • a heart medicine called diltiazem.
  • medicines for depression known as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitors (SNRIs).

Alfentanil-hameln can increase the effects of alcohol. Tell your doctor about your consumption of alcohol and follow the doctor's advice.

If you have not told your doctor about any of these things, tell them before you are given Alfentanil-hameln.

These medicines may be affected by Alfentanil-hameln or may affect how well Alfentanil-hameln works. Your doctor can tell you what to do if you are taking any of these medicines.

4. How will I be given Alfentanil-hameln?

Alfentanil-hameln will be given to you by injection by a specially trained anaesthetist.

The injection is given into the vein (intravenous use).

Your doctor will decide how much Alfentanil-hameln you will need.

Elderly people may be given a smaller dose.

If you are given too much Alfentanil-hameln

The doctor or nurse giving you Alfentanil-hameln will be experienced in its use, so it is extremely unlikely that you will be given too much.

In the unlikely event that an overdose occurs, your doctor or the anaesthetist will take the necessary actions. The symptoms of overdose could include:

  • slow, unusual or difficult breathing;
  • drowsiness, dizziness or unconsciousness;
  • slow or weak heartbeat;
  • nausea or vomiting;
  • convulsions or fits;
  • muscle stiffness;
  • lowering of blood pressure;
  • lowering of heart rate.

If these symptoms occur, you may be administered another medicine (eg. naloxone) to help reverse the effects.

If you think you or anybody else has been given too much Alfentanil-hameln, immediately contact your doctor or nurse, or phone the Poisons Information Centre (telephone 13 11 26).

5. What should I know while being given Alfentanil-hameln?

Things you must do

Before you start on a new medicine, remind your doctor and pharmacist that you are being given Alfentanil-hameln injection or infusion. Tell any other doctors, dentists and pharmacists who treat you that you are having this medicine.

If you become pregnant while being given this medicine, tell your doctor immediately.

Driving or using machines

Alfentanil-hameln may affect your alertness and ability to drive. Therefore you should not drive or operate machinery until your doctor advises that you can.

Drinking alcohol

You must not drink alcohol while you are being given this medicine.

Drinking alcohol whilst using Alfentanil-hameln injection or infusion may result in severe drowsiness, decreased awareness, breathing problems, coma and death.

Looking after your medicine

Store unopened Alfentanil-hameln ampoules in a cool dry place, where the temperature stays below 30°C.

Alfentanil-hameln will be kept in a locked cupboard in the hospital pharmacy or operating theatre.

Alfentanil-hameln should not be used after the date printed on the label has passed. The anaesthetist will inspect Alfentanil-hameln before use to determine that it is still within its expiry date.

Getting rid of any unwanted medicine

The hospital staff looking after you will dispose of any remaining Alfentanil-hameln appropriately.

6. Are there any side effects?

Tell your doctor or nurse as soon as possible if you do not feel well after you have been given Alfentanil-hameln.

Alfentanil-hameln helps most people suffering severe pain, but it may have unwanted side effects in a few people. All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes, they are serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical treatment if you get some of the side effects.

Ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to answer any questions you may have.

After you have been given Alfentanil-hameln you will probably feel light-headed, dizzy, sleepy and you may feel quite strange, especially if you are not lying down.

Less serious side effects

Less serious side effectsWhat to do
  • nausea and vomiting;
  • dizziness;
  • drowsiness or sleepiness;
  • injection site pain or pain during the procedure.
Speak to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects and they worry you.

Serious side effects

The following list includes serious side effects that may require medical attention.

Serious side effectsWhat to do
  • feeling of extreme happiness (euphoric mood);
  • visual disturbance such as blurred vision;
  • chills;
  • rash
  • breathing difficulties, which can last longer than its pain-killing effect;
  • slow, fast or irregular heartbeat;
  • tightening of the chest or heart attack;
  • low or high blood pressure;
  • muscle stiffness or involuntary muscle movements, including slow, stiff or jerking movements;
  • spasm of the larynx (voice box).
Call your doctor straight away, or go straight to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital if you notice any of these serious side effects.

Tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you notice anything else that may be making you feel unwell. Other side effects not listed here may occur in some people.

Reporting side effects

After you have received medical advice for any side effects you experience, you can report side effects to the Therapeutic Goods Administration online at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Always make sure you speak to your doctor or pharmacist before you decide to stop taking any of your medicines.

7. Product details

This medicine is only available with a doctor's prescription.

What Alfentanil-hameln contains

Active ingredient
(main ingredient)
Alfentanil hydrochloride
Other ingredients
(inactive ingredients)
sodium chloride
hydrochloric acid
water for injections

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any of these ingredients.

What Alfentanil-hameln looks like

Alfentanil-hameln solution for injection or infusion is available in glass ampoules containing a clear, colourless solution. It is available in two presentations:

  • 1 mg in 2 mL (AUST R 386331)
  • 5 mg in 10 mL (AUST R 386330)

Alfentanil-hameln 1 mg/2 mL and 5 mg/10 mL solution for injection or infusion are supplied in packs of 5 and 10 ampoules.

Who distributes Alfentanil-hameln

hameln pharma Pty Ltd
Level 3, 302 Burwood Rd
Hawthorn, Victoria 3122
Australia
[email protected]

This leaflet was prepared in August 2023.

Published by MIMS November 2023

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

Alfentanil-hameln

Active ingredient

Alfentanil

Schedule

S8

 

1 Name of Medicine

Alfentanil hydrochloride.

2 Qualitative and Quantitative Composition

Each mL of Alfentanil-hameln contains alfentanil hydrochloride equivalent to 0.5 mg alfentanil with 9.0 mg sodium chloride in water for injection to 1 mL.

3 Pharmaceutical Form

Alfentanil-hameln solution for injection is a sterile, clear and colourless solution.

4 Clinical Particulars

4.1 Therapeutic Indications

Alfentanil-hameln is indicated for intravenous use by specialist anaesthetists and their trainees as:
an analgesic supplement given by incremental intravenous boluses or continuous infusion; and
an anaesthetic induction agent where in patients undergoing in-patient surgery, when endotracheal intubation and controlled ventilation are to be used.
Because of its rapid onset and short duration of action, intravenous Alfentanil-hameln is particularly suited as a narcotic analgesic for short procedures and outpatients, provided that the patients are maintained under appropriate post-operative surveillance. However, intravenous Alfentanil-hameln is also useful as an analgesic supplement for procedures of medium to long duration, since periods of very painful stimuli can be easily overcome by administration of small increments of Alfentanil-hameln or by adapting the infusion rate.

4.2 Dose and Method of Administration

Alfentanil-hameln should be administered intravenously (other routes of administration have not been evaluated). The dosage should be individualised taking into consideration factors such as age, body weight, physical status, underlying pathological condition (also see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use), use of other medicines (see Section 4.5 Interactions With Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions), type of anaesthesia to be used and type and duration of the surgical procedure. As a general principle, the lowest effective dose should be used.
To avoid bradycardia a small I.V. dose of an anticholinergic (e.g. atropine) just before anaesthetic induction may be administered.
Co-administration of droperidol or benzodiazepines may lengthen recovery from alfentanil, of importance in outpatients (a successful outpatient technique has consisted of an anticholinergic, a short-acting induction hypnotic, alfentanil and nitrous oxide/oxygen).
The initial dose of alfentanil should be appropriately reduced in the elderly (> 65 years of age) and in cirrhotic patients. The effect of the initial dose should be considered in determining supplemental doses. Monitoring of the patient should continue well after surgery in a recovery facility that conforms to the current guidelines of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetics.

Use as an analgesic supplement.

i) Spontaneous ventilation techniques.

Doses up to 7 micrograms/kg, administered as a slow intravenous injection, may be used with increments of 2-3 micrograms/kg at 10-15 minute intervals. At this dose with induction of anaesthesia, in particular with propofol (see Section 4.5 Interactions With Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions), transient apnoea is frequent and the dosage may be adjusted downwards.

ii) Controlled ventilation techniques.

For attenuation of the hypertensive response to laryngoscopy a dose prior to intubation of 2050 micrograms/kg is appropriate; such doses may have effect for up to 30-45 minutes.
For short procedures, an initial dose 7-15 micrograms/kg at induction, with intermittent boluses up to 15 micrograms/kg at 10-15 minute intervals are most useful.
For procedures of longer duration, a higher dose may be given at induction (see Table 1) and further increments titrated to effect.
When surgery is more prolonged or more traumatic, analgesia should be maintained by:
either increments of up to 15 micrograms/kg (2 mL/70 kg) Alfentanil-hameln when required (to avoid post-operative respiratory depression, no Alfentanil-hameln should be administered during the last 10 minutes of surgery);
or a Alfentanil-hameln infusion at a rate of 0.5 to 1 microgram/kg/min (0.14 mL/70 kg/min) until 5 to 10 minutes before the completion of surgery.
Continuous infusion is preferable for cases greater than 60 minutes duration.
Alfentanil-hameln should not be given in the last 10 minutes prior to completion of surgery.
Periods of very painful stimuli can easily be overcome by small dose increments of alfentanil or by temporarily increasing the infusion rate. When alfentanil is used without nitrous oxide/oxygen or another inhalation anaesthetic, a higher maintenance dose of alfentanil is required.
Alfentanil-hameln may be administered as an infusion for more prolonged procedures with the following infusion solutions:
0.9% sodium chloride injection;
5.0% glucose injection; or
compound sodium lactate intravenous injection (Ringer Lactate Injection).

Warning.

The prepared infusion should commence as soon as possible after its preparation. To reduce microbiological hazard, use as soon as practicable after preparation. If storage is necessary, hold at 2°C to 8°C for not more than 24 hours.
Product is for single use in one patient only. Discard any residue.

Use as an induction agent.

An intravenous bolus dose of ≥ 120 micrograms/kg (17 mL/70 kg) Alfentanil-hameln will induce hypnosis and analgesia while maintaining good cardiovascular stability in patients with adequate muscle relaxation.
When post-operative nausea occurs it is of relatively short duration and easily controlled by conventional measures.

4.3 Contraindications

Alfentanil-hameln is:
Contraindicated in those with a known intolerance to the medicine, components of the formulation or to other opioid analgesics.
Contraindicated in post-operative analgesia.
Contraindicated for use in patients with severe respiratory disease, acute respiratory disease and respiratory depression.
Contraindicated for use in chronic (long-term) non-cancer pain (CNCP).
Not for use by unapproved routes of administration.

4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use

Alfentanil should be administered only by persons specifically trained in the use of intravenous and general anaesthetic agents and in the management of respiratory effects of potent opioids.
An opioid antagonist, resuscitative and intubation equipment, and oxygen should be readily available. Because of the possibility of delayed respiratory depression, monitoring of the patient must continue well after surgery in an approved recovery facility (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).
Alfentanil, also at doses below 20 micrograms/kg may cause skeletal muscular rigidity, particularly of the truncal muscles. The incidence and severity of muscular rigidity is usually dose related. Administration of alfentanil at anaesthetic induction dosages (above 120 micrograms/kg) will consistently produce muscular rigidity with an immediate onset. The onset of muscular rigidity occurs earlier than with other opioids.

Hazardous and harmful use.

Alfentanil-hameln contains the opioid alfentanil and is a potential drug of abuse, misuse and addiction. Addiction can occur in patients appropriately prescribed alfentanil at recommended doses.
The risk of addiction is increased in patients with a personal or family history of substance abuse (including alcohol and prescription and illicit drugs) or mental illness. The risk also increases the longer the drug is used and with higher doses. Patients should be assessed for their risks for opioid abuse or addiction prior to being prescribed Alfentanil-hameln.
All patients receiving opioids should be routinely monitored for signs of misuse and abuse. Opioids are sought by people with addiction and may be subject to diversion. Strategies to reduce these risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity and advising the patient on the safe storage and proper disposal of any unused drug (see Section 6.4 Special Precautions for Storage; Section 6.6 Special Precautions for Disposal). Caution patients that abuse of oral or transdermal forms of opioids by parenteral administration can result in serious adverse events, which may be fatal.
Patients should be advised not to share alfentanil with anyone else.

Respiratory depression.

Serious, life-threatening or fatal respiratory depression can occur with the use of opioids even when used as recommended. It can occur at any time during the use of alfentanil but the risk is greatest during initiation of therapy or following an increase in dose. Patients should be monitored closely for respiratory depression at these times.
The risk of life-threatening respiratory depression is also higher in elderly, frail, or debilitated patients, in patients with existing impairment of respiratory function (e.g. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; asthma), and in patients with liver disease (see Use in hepatic impairment) and renal failure (see Use in renal impairment). Opioids should be used with caution and with close monitoring in these patients (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration). The use of opioids is contraindicated in patients with severe respiratory disease, acute respiratory disease and respiratory depression (see Section 4.3 Contraindications).
The risk of respiratory depression is greater with the use of high doses of opioids, especially high potency and modified release formulations, and in opioid naïve patients. Initiation of opioid treatment should be at the lower end of the dosage recommendations with careful titration of doses to achieve effective pain relief. Careful calculation of equianalgesic doses is required when changing opioids or switching from immediate release to modified release formulations, together with consideration of pharmacological differences between opioids. Consider starting the new opioid at a reduced dose to account for individual variation in response.
As with other potent opioids, profound analgesia is accompanied by marked respiratory depression and loss of consciousness which may persist or recur in the postoperative period. There is no reliable way of determining, a priori which individuals are at risk. In the case of alfentanil, respiratory depression is dose-related and usually of short duration, and can be reversed by specific opioid antagonists, but additional doses of the latter may be necessary because the respiratory depression may last longer than the duration of action of the opioid antagonist. Recovery room staff should be aware that marked respiratory depression has been reported as occurring after periods of up to several hours after the patient has been perceived to be alert, conversing coherently, and with normal respiration. The risk might be greater with patients on other depressant medicines, for example benzodiazepines and thiopental. As with other narcotic analgesics, patients who have received Alfentanil-hameln should remain under appropriate surveillance. Vital signs should be monitored continuously. This should occur during, and must continue well after recovery (for at least two hours). Resuscitation equipment and a specific opioid antagonist, such as naloxone, should be readily available to manage apnoea. Naloxone administration may need to be repeated. Hyperventilation during anaesthesia may alter the patient's response to carbon dioxide, thus affecting respiration postoperatively.
Opioids should be titrated with caution in patients with pulmonary disease; decreased respiratory reserve; alcoholism and impaired hepatic and renal function. Such patients also require prolonged post-operative monitoring.

Risk from concomitant use of benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol.

Concomitant use of opioids and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, may result in sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Because of these risks, concomitant prescribing of Alfentanil-hameln with CNS depressant medicines, such as other opioid analgesics, benzodiazepines, gabapentinoids, cannabis, sedatives, hypnotics, tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines, centrally-active anti-emetics and other CNS depressants, should be reserved for patients for whom other treatment options are not possible. If a decision is made to prescribe Alfentanil-hameln concomitantly with any of the medicines, the lowest effective dose should be used, and the duration of treatment should be as short as possible. Patients should be followed closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Patients and their caregivers should be made aware of these symptoms. Patients and their caregivers should also be informed of the potential harms of consuming alcohol while taking Alfentanil-hameln.

Tolerance and opioid use disorder (abuse and dependence).

Neuroadaptation of the opioid receptors to repeated administration of opioids can produce tolerance, physical dependence and opioid use disorder (OUD). Abuse or intentional misuse of opioids may result in overdose and/or death. The risk of developing OUD is increased in patients with a personal or a family history (parents or siblings) of substance use disorders (including alcohol use disorder), in current tobacco users or in patients with a personal history of other mental health disorders (e.g. major depression, anxiety and personality disorders). Tolerance is the need for increasing doses to maintain analgesia. Tolerance may occur to both the desired and undesired effects of the opioid.
Physical dependence, which can occur after several days to weeks of continued opioid usage, results in withdrawal symptoms if the opioid is ceased abruptly or the dose is significantly reduced. Withdrawal symptoms can also occur following the administration of an opioid antagonist (e.g. naloxone) or partial agonist (e.g. buprenorphine). Withdrawal can result in some or all of the following symptoms: dysphoria, restlessness/agitation, lacrimation, rhinorrhoea, yawning, sweating, chills, myalgia, mydriasis, irritability, anxiety, increasing pain, backache, joint pain, weakness, abdominal cramps, insomnia, nausea, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhoea, increased blood pressure, increased respiratory rate and increased heart rate.
When discontinuing Alfentanil-hameln in a person who may be physically dependent, the drug should not be ceased abruptly but withdrawn by tapering the dose gradually (see Ceasing opioids; Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).

Neonatal withdrawal syndrome.

There is a risk that newborn infants will experience neonatal withdrawal syndrome following prolonged use of opioids during pregnancy (also see Paediatric use below; Section 4.6 Fertility, Pregnancy and Lactation, Use in pregnancy).

Accidental ingestion/exposure.

Accidental ingestion or exposure of alfentanil, especially by children, can result in a fatal overdose of alfentanil. Patients and their caregivers should be given information on safe storage and disposal of unused Alfentanil-hameln (see Section 6.4 Special Precautions for Storage; Section 6.6 Special Precautions for Disposal).

Hyperalgesia.

Hyperalgesia may occur with the use of opioids, particularly at high doses. Hyperalgesia may manifest as an unexplained increase in pain, increased levels of pain with increasing opioid dosages or diffuse sensitivity not associated with the original pain. Hyperalgesia should not be confused with tolerance (see Tolerance and opioid use disorder (abuse and dependence)). If opioid induced hyperalgesia is suspected, the dose should be reduced and tapered off if possible. A change to a different opioid may be required.

Ceasing opioids.

Abrupt discontinuation or rapid decreasing of the dose in a person physically dependent on an opioid may result in serious withdrawal symptoms and uncontrolled pain (see Tolerance and opioid use disorder (abuse and dependence)). Such symptoms may lead the patient to seek other sources of licit or illicit opioids. Opioids should not be ceased abruptly in a patient who is physically dependent but withdrawn by tapering the dose slowly. Factors to take into account when deciding how to discontinue or decrease therapy include the dose and duration of the opioid the patient has been taking, the type of pain being treated and the physical and psychological attributes of the patient. A multimodal approach to pain management should be in place before initiating an opioid analgesic taper. During tapering, patients require regular review and support to manage any increase in pain, psychological distress and withdrawal symptoms.
There are no standard tapering schedules suitable for all patients and an individualised plan is necessary. In general, tapering should involve a dose reduction of no more than 10 percent to 25 percent every 2 to 4 weeks (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration). If the patient is experiencing increased pain or serious withdrawal symptoms, it may be necessary to go back to the previous dose until stable before proceeding with a more gradual taper.
When ceasing opioids in a patient who has a suspected opioid use disorder, the need for medication assisted treatment and/or referral to a specialist should be considered.

Muscular rigidity.

Alfentanil may induce muscle rigidity during induction, including thoracic muscular rigidity. Rigidity may be avoided by the following measures:
a) slow intravenous injection, especially when higher doses are indicated;
b) premedication with benzodiazepines;
c) administration of muscle relaxants prior to Alfentanil-hameln administration.
Non-epileptic (myo)clonic movements can occur.

Cardiovascular effects.

When insufficient anticholinergic is administered, or when alfentanil is administered in combination with non-vagolytic muscle relaxants and induction agents, bradycardia, hypotension and sometimes cardiac arrest may occur.

Instructions for Use and Handling.

Wear gloves while opening ampoule.
Accidental dermal exposure should be treated by rinsing the affected area with water. Avoid usage of soap, alcohol, and other cleaning materials that may cause chemical or physical abrasions to the skin.

Special dosing conditions.

As with other opioids, alfentanil may induce hypotension, especially in hypovolaemic patients. Appropriate measures should be taken to maintain a stable arterial pressure.
The use of rapid bolus injections of opioids should be avoided in patients with compromised intracerebral compliance; in such patients the transient decrease in the mean arterial pressure has occasionally been accompanied by a short-lasting reduction of the cerebral perfusion pressure.
It is recommended to reduce the dosage in the elderly and in debilitated patients. As with other opioids, alfentanil should be titrated with caution in patients with any of the following conditions: uncontrolled hypothyroidism; pulmonary disease; decreased respiratory reserve; alcoholism; impaired hepatic or renal function. Such patients also require prolonged post-operative monitoring.

Head injury.

Alfentanil-hameln may obscure the clinical course of patients with head injuries.

Use in hypothyroidism.

It is recommended that the dose of Alfentanil-hameln is reduced in those patients with hypothyroidism, because of reduced clearance. The dosage should be titrated individually and adjusted according to the clinical response.

Use in obese patients.

It is recommended that the dosage of Alfentanil-hameln is reduced in obese patients because of reduced clearance. The dosage should be titrated individually and adjusted according to the clinical response.

Use in hepatic impairment.

It is recommended that the dose of Alfentanil-hameln is reduced in those patients with chronic liver disease, because of decreased plasma protein concentrations and reduced clearance possibly resulting in more prolonged and pronounced clinical effects. Because of the variable pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, the dosage should be titrated individually and adjusted on the basis of the clinical response.

Use in renal impairment.

Due to an increased plasma free fraction of alfentanil in patients with renal failure, the clinical effects of Alfentanil-hameln may be prolonged and more pronounced. Therefore, the dose of Alfentanil-hameln should be titrated with caution in these patients.

Use in the elderly.

It is recommended that the dose of Alfentanil-hameln is reduced in the elderly, because of reduced clearance. A dosage reduced by about a third has been effective, but in general, the dosage should be individualised, and based on the clinical response.

Paediatric use.

Adequate data to support the use of alfentanil in children under 12 years of age are presently not available. Infants and neonates exposed to opioids directly may experience withdrawal symptoms, particularly following abrupt cessation or following prolonged use.

Effects on laboratory tests.

No data available.

4.5 Interactions with Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions

Anaesthetic agents.

As with other opioids, the respiratory depressant and cardiovascular depressant effects of alfentanil may be potentiated by halogenated inhalation agents, and particularly propofol. Propofol also appears to alter the disposition of alfentanil pharmacokinetics, resulting in elevated plasma levels of alfentanil.

Central nervous system (CNS) depressants.

Alfentanil-hameln may potentiate the respiratory and cardiovascular depressant effects of medicines such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines, phenothiazine derivatives, other non-selective hypnotics. Medicines such other opioid analgesics, barbiturates, benzodiazepines or related drugs, antihistamines, antipsychotics, neuroleptics, tricyclic antidepressants, centrally active anti-emetics, gabapentinoids, general anaesthetics, cannabis and other non-selective CNS depressants (e.g. alcohol) may potentiate the respiratory depression of narcotics. When patients have received such medicines, the dose of Alfentanil-hameln required will be less than usual (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
Likewise, following the administration of Alfentanil-hameln, the dose of other CNS-depressant medicines should be reduced. This is particularly important after surgery, because profound analgesia is accompanied by marked respiratory depression, which can persist or recur in the postoperative period. Administration of a CNS depressant, such as a benzodiazepine or related drugs, during this period may disproportionally increase the risk of respiratory depression (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
Concomitant use with Alfentanil-hameln in spontaneously breathing patients may increase the risk of respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma and death (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use). The concomitant use of opioids and gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin) increases the risk of opioid overdose, respiratory depression and death.

Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibitors.

Alfentanil is metabolised mainly via the human cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme. Available human pharmacokinetic data indicate that the metabolism of alfentanil may be inhibited by fluconazole, voriconazole, erythromycin, diltiazem and cimetidine (known cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme inhibitors). In vitro data suggest that other potent cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme inhibitors (e.g. ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir) may also inhibit the metabolism of alfentanil. This could increase the risk of prolonged or delayed respiratory depression. The concomitant use of such medicines requires special patient care and observation; in particular, it may be necessary to lower the dose of Alfentanil-hameln.

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI).

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors have been reported to potentiate the effects of opioid analgesics, the use of Alfentanil-hameln in patients who have received irreversible MAO inhibitors within two weeks should be avoided.

Serotonergic drugs.

Co-administration of alfentanil with a serotonergic agent, such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), or Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Effect of alfentanil on the metabolism of other medicines.

In combination with alfentanil, the blood concentrations of propofol are 17% higher than in the absence of alfentanil. The concomitant use of alfentanil and propofol may require a lower dose of Alfentanil-hameln.

4.6 Fertility, Pregnancy and Lactation

Effects on fertility.

No data available.
(Category C)
A concern with narcotic analgesics in pregnancy is with their use during labour when they may cause respiratory depression in the newborn infant. These products should only be used during labour after weighing the needs of the mother against the risk to the foetus. I.V. administration during childbirth (including caesarean section) is not recommended, because alfentanil crosses the placenta and may suppress spontaneous respiration in the newborn period. If Alfentanil-hameln is administered nevertheless, assisted ventilation equipment must be immediately available for use if required for the mother and infant. An opioid antagonist for the child must always be available. The half-life of the opioid antagonist may be shorter than the half-life of alfentanil, therefore, repeated administration of the opioid antagonist may be necessary. Respiratory depression and hypotension are basic pharmacological actions of alfentanil. Careful monitoring by trained personnel is routinely required.
Alfentanil has been shown to have an embryocidal effect on rats and rabbits when given in doses of 1.25 mg/kg for a period of 10 days to over 30 days. These effects may have been due to maternal toxicity following prolonged administration of the medicine. No teratogenic effect has been observed after the administration of alfentanil to rats and rabbits at doses up to 1.25 mg/kg IV. It should be noted, however, that alfentanil crosses the placenta and may suppress spontaneous respiration in the newborn period.
The foetal respiratory centre is known to be more sensitive to opiates.
Withdrawal symptoms in newborn infants have been reported with prolonged use of opioids. Prolonged use of an opioid during pregnancy may cause drug dependence in the neonate, leading to neonatal withdrawal syndrome. Consequently, it is necessary to consider potential risks and potential advantages before administering alfentanil to pregnant patients. Prolonged use of opioids in pregnant woman should only be considered if the benefits outweigh the risks associated with use. Prior to commencement of the treatment, patients should be advised of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome.
Alfentanil may be excreted in human milk. Therefore, breast-feeding or use of expressed breast milk is not recommended during the 24 hours following its administration.

4.7 Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines

Driving and the operation of machines can only be resumed when sufficient time has elapsed following the administration of alfentanil. Individual reactions vary greatly. It is recommended that patients not drive or use machines for at least 24 hours after administration of alfentanil.

4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)

The adverse reactions are those associated with the intravenous opioids, e.g. respiratory depression, apnoea, muscular rigidity (which may also involve the thoracic muscles), myoclonic movements, bradycardia, (transient) hypotension, nausea, vomiting and dizziness.
Other less frequently reported adverse reactions are:
Laryngospasm;
Allergic reactions (such as anaphylaxis, bronchospasm, urticaria) and asystole have been reported; since several medicines were co-administered during anaesthesia, it is uncertain whether there is a causal relationship to alfentanil;
Recurrence of respiratory depression after the operation has been observed in rare instances.
Also see Section 4.4 Special Warning and Precautions for Use.
Although it is unlikely, alfentanil could cause opioid-dependence, and has a potential for being abused.

Clinical trial data.

The safety of alfentanil was evaluated in 1157 subjects who participated in 18 clinical trials. Alfentanil was administered as an anaesthetic induction agent or as an analgesic/anaesthesia adjuvant to regional and general anaesthesia, in short, medium, and long surgical procedures. These subjects took at least one dose of alfentanil and provided safety data. Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) that were reported for ≥ 1% of alfentanil-treated subjects in these trials are shown in Table 2.
Additional ADRs that occurred in < 1% of alfentanil-treated subjects in the 18 clinical trials are listed below in Table 3.

Post-marketing data.

Adverse drug reactions first identified during post-marketing experience with alfentanil are included in Table 4. The frequencies are provided according to the following convention: very common: ≥ 1/10; common: ≥ 1/100 and < 1/10; uncommon: ≥ 1/1,000 and < 1/100; rare: ≥ 1/10,000, < 1/1,000; very rare < 1/10,000, including isolated reports.

Reporting suspected adverse effects.

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after registration of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit-risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions at www.tga.gov.au/reporting- problems.

4.9 Overdose

The manifestations of alfentanil overdose are an extension of its pharmacological actions. Depending on the individual sensitivity, the clinical picture will be determined primarily by respiratory depression, varying from bradypnoea to apnoea.
In the presence of hypoventilation or apnoea, oxygen should be administered and respiration should be assisted or controlled as indicated.
If depressed respiration is associated with muscular rigidity, an intravenous neuromuscular blocking agent might be required to facilitate assisted or controlled respiration. The patient should be carefully observed; body warmth and adequate fluid intake should be maintained. If hypotension is severe or if it persists, the possibility of hypovolaemia should be considered and controlled with appropriate parenteral fluid administration.
A specific narcotic antagonist, naloxone, should be available for use as indicated to control respiratory depression. This does not preclude the use of more immediate countermeasures. The respiratory depression may last longer than the effect of the antagonist; additional doses of the latter may therefore be required.
For information on the management of overdose, contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 (Australia).

5 Pharmacological Properties

5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties

Mechanism of action.

Alfentanil is a potent, short-acting opioid analgesic chemically related to fentanyl.
The onset of action of alfentanil is more rapid than that of an equianalgesic dose of fentanyl, and the maximal analgesic and respiratory depressant effect occurs within 1 to 2 minutes. The time to onset of analgesia was 55.7 (range 15-120) seconds for alfentanil, compared to 103.8 (range 30-120) seconds for fentanyl. Depth of analgesia can be adjusted to the pain level of the surgical procedure.
The duration of action of alfentanil is shorter than that of an equianalgesic dose of fentanyl, and is dose related. Durations of action for short, medium and long procedures are discussed under Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration. For analgesia lasting longer than 60 minutes, an infusion is preferable.
The duration of the analgesic effect may be shorter than that of the respiratory depression, in some patients. The duration and degree of apnoea, respiratory depression and increased airway resistance usually increase with dose but have also been observed at lower doses (see Section 4.4 Special Warning and Precautions for Use). The time course of respiratory depression is not related to the pharmacokinetics described below.
At higher doses (> 120 micrograms/kg) alfentanil can be used as an anaesthetic induction agent. Induction is smooth, pain-free and devoid of cardiovascular and hormonal stress response to intubation.
At induction, alfentanil may produce increased muscular tone, including thoracic muscular rigidity and limb movements. These and other typical signs and symptoms of narcotic analgesics, such as euphoria, miosis and bradycardia, may also be observed if alfentanil is given too rapidly or at too high a dosage.
All actions of alfentanil are rapidly and completely reversed by a specific narcotic antagonist, such as naloxone. A single dose of one of these agents may not be sufficient in prolonged respiratory depression. Repeat doses may be needed.

Clinical trials.

No data available.

5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties

Alfentanil is a synthetic opioid with mu-opioid receptor agonist activity.
After intravenous administration of alfentanil, maximal analgesia, at the recommended dose, occurs after one minute. The low degree of ionisation (11% at pH 7.4) contributes significantly to a rapid distribution. The total volume of distribution varies from 0.4 to 1.0 L/kg, which is approximately one quarter to one tenth that of fentanyl, indicating a limited distribution to the tissues. The small volume of distribution is also attributable to the limited liposolubility and strong plasma protein binding of the drug mainly to alpha1-acid-glycoprotein.
Alfentanil is metabolised mainly by the liver with only 1% of the active substance found unaltered in the urine. It is metabolised by N-and O-dealkylation. 70-80% of the metabolites are eliminated in the urine. The plasma clearance averages 356 mL/min. Clearance is decreased in obese patients. As with fentanyl, "secondary peaks" in plasma concentrations have been reported.
The sequential distribution half-lives are 1 and 14 minutes. Alfentanil elimination is rapid: The terminal elimination half-life is 90-111 minutes (range 50-150 minutes), which is significantly faster than for fentanyl.
During average to long-lasting surgical procedures, analgesia can be maintained by repeated injection of alfentanil, or by a continuous infusion, subsequent to a bolus dose. Repeated or prolonged administration of alfentanil, produces increased plasma concentrations and accumulation of the drug.
Once steady-state has been reached after infusion, the elimination half-life remains unaltered, providing there has been no drug interaction with drugs such as erythromycin, and hepatic function is not unexpectedly impaired.
Patient recovery (i.e. return to consciousness) generally occurs rapidly on discontinuation of alfentanil.
A table summarising pharmacokinetic parameters for alfentanil and fentanyl is shown in Table 5:

Special populations.

Hepatic impairment.

After administration of a single intravenous dose of 50 microgram/kg, the terminal half life in cirrhotic patients is significantly longer than in controls. The volume of distribution remains unchanged. The free fraction of alfentanil increases in cirrhotic patients to 18.5% compared with 11.5% in controls. This increase in free fraction together with a reduction in clearance from 3.06 mL/min/kg in controls to 1.60 mL/min/kg in cirrhotic patients will result in a more prolonged and pronounced effect (see Section 4.4 Special Warning and Precautions for Use).

Renal impairment.

The volume of distribution and clearance of the free fraction is similar in renal failure patients and healthy controls. The free fraction of alfentanil in patients with renal failure is increased to 12.4 to 19% compared with 10.3 to 11% in controls. This may result in an increase in clinical effect of alfentanil (see Section 4.4 Special Warning and Precautions for Use).

5.3 Preclinical Safety Data

Genotoxicity.

Mutagenicity studies showed no evidence of mutagenic activity (Ames Salmonella assay) and chromosomal damage (micronucleus and dominant lethal tests).

Carcinogenicity.

No long term animal studies of alfentanil have been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential.

6 Pharmaceutical Particulars

6.1 List of Excipients

Sodium chloride, water for injection.

6.2 Incompatibilities

See Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration.

6.3 Shelf Life

In Australia, information on the shelf life can be found on the public summary of the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The expiry date can be found on the packaging.

6.4 Special Precautions for Storage

Store below 30°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Ampoules should be removed only for immediate use.

6.5 Nature and Contents of Container

1 mg alfentanil in 2 mL glass ampoules in cartons of 5 or 10 ampoules*.
5 mg alfentanil in 10 mL glass ampoules in cartons of 5 or 10 ampoules*.
*Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

6.6 Special Precautions for Disposal

In Australia, any unused medicine or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

6.7 Physicochemical Properties

Chemical structure.


CAS number.

71195-58-9.

7 Medicine Schedule (Poisons Standard)

Schedule 8-Controlled Drug.

Summary Table of Changes