sufentanüül

Sufentanil (often written with special characters as "sufentanüül") is a potent synthetic opioid analgesic used primarily in anesthesia and intensive care settings. It belongs to the sufentanil family of fentanyl analogues, which are characterized by high affinity for the μ‑receptors of the central nervous system. Because of its potency—approximately 10 to 15 times stronger than fentanyl—sufentanil is typically administered in microgram quantities, and its clinical effects can be achieved within seconds of intravenous injection.

Pharmacologically, sufentanil exerts its analgesic effect by binding to μ‑opioid receptors in the spinal cord and brainstem, inhibiting the transmission of nociceptive signals. The drug also produces central sedation, respiratory depression, and analgesia. Its pharmacokinetics are marked by a rapid onset (within 2–3 minutes) and a short duration of action (15–20 minutes). Plasma clearance occurs mainly through hepatic metabolism, and about 40–70% of a dose is excreted via the kidneys. Contraindications include severe respiratory or circulatory insufficiency and known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation.

Clinical uses include management of acute postoperative pain, analgesia for mechanically ventilated patients, and as part of balanced general anesthesia. Sufentanil is also sometimes applied for refractory chronic pain in a clinical decision-making context, though its use in that setting is constrained by risk of respiratory depression.

Adverse effects range from nausea, vomiting, pruritus, and hypotension to potentially life‑threatening respiratory depression. Tolerance and physical dependence may develop rapidly with prolonged use, and opioid withdrawal can be severe in patients abruptly discontinued from the drug. Therefore, dosage adjustments and careful monitoring are essential.