Effects of alfentanil on the pressor and catecholamine responses to tracheal intubation

The effects of alfentanil (given during induction of anaesthesia) on the haemodynamic and catecholamine responses to tracheal intubation were studied in 44 adult patients who received alfentanil 10 micrograms kg-1 or 40 micrograms kg-1, or saline placebo. Alfentanil 10 micrograms kg-1 and 40 micrograms kg-1 prevented any increase in heart rate and arterial pressure after tracheal intubation. Alfentanil 40 micrograms kg-1 produced profound hypotension and bradycardia. The use of alfentanil in both doses was associated with a decrease in plasma adrenaline concentrations after tracheal intubation.