Fetal, Preterm, and Term Neonate Exposure to Remifentanil: A Systematic Review of Efficacy and Safety

Abstract

Background: Owing to its pharmacodynamic properties, especially the rapid onset and short duration of its action, the use of remifentanil in obstetric anesthesia, as well as in neonatology, might be increasingly used.

Objective: We conducted a systematic review to assess the efficacy and safety of remifentanil in preterm and term neonates. Outcomes of interest were neonatal adaptation after fetal exposure; neonatal pain, distress, and discomfort control during invasive procedures; and the occurrence of hemodynamic effects or respiratory depression induced by remifentanil infusion.

Methods: Given the different contexts of use, we have organized this work into three parts: (A) use of remifentanil for labor or cesarean section, with exposure of the fetus before birth, (B) brief use for neonatal procedural analgesia, and (C) prolonged use for sedation/analgesia of neonates. The bibliographic search was conducted based on keywords using electronic medical databases (DATABASE, Cochrane Library, PubMed, and EMBASE) from 1 January 2000 until 31 December 2022.

Results: Twenty-two articles were included (10 in part A, 5 in part B and 7 in part C). Prospective, controlled, randomized, blinded, and intention-to-treat trials were retained. Neonates were well adapted after exposure to remifentanil in the fetal period. Pain, stress, and discomfort were controlled during a brief or prolonged invasive procedure when remifentanil was used for sedation/analgesia. The physiological parameters were stable and the procedures were straightforward. Chest wall rigidity appeared to be a common side effect, but this can be managed by slow and continuous infusion and by using the minimum effective dose.

Conclusions: Remifentanil appears to be effective and safe in the short term in preterm and full-term neonates. However, its safety is compromised by the risk of chest wall rigidity. It should be used in appropriate neonatal units and in the presence of physicians able to monitor its side effects. Long-term outcomes have not been evaluated, to our knowledge.