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Updated: Jun 18, 2026
03:14
Spinal Sonography for Ultrasound-Guided Lumbar Neuraxial Anesthesia
Published on: January 31, 2025
Systemic remifentanil for labor analgesia.
Anelia Hinova1, Roshan Fernando
1Department of Anesthesia, St. Mary's Hospital, UK.
Anesthesia and Analgesia
|November 20, 2009
Summary
Remifentanil offers a safe and effective intravenous (IV) option for labor analgesia when neuraxial blockade is not feasible. This review examines its efficacy, safety, and optimal use for mothers and neonates.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmacology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Neuraxial blockade is the standard for labor analgesia but has contraindications.
- Systemic analgesia is needed when neuraxial methods are unsuitable or unavailable.
- Remifentanil's properties make it a candidate for intravenous (IV) labor analgesia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy of remifentanil for labor analgesia.
- To examine the safety profile for mother and fetus/neonate.
- To discuss optimal dosing and delivery methods for remifentanil.
Main Methods:
- Focused literature review.
- Analysis of existing clinical data on remifentanil use in labor.
- Evaluation of safety and efficacy studies.
Main Results:
- Remifentanil demonstrates efficacy as an IV labor analgesic.
- Established safety data for maternal and fetal/neonatal outcomes.
- Guidelines for dose and administration are emerging.
Conclusions:
- Remifentanil is a viable systemic option for labor pain management.
- Further research can refine its application and optimize patient care.
- Its use expands options for pain relief during childbirth.
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