The effect of age on the dose of remifentanil for tracheal intubation in infants and children

Abstract

The ED(50) of remifentanil for tracheal intubation was higher in all age groups than previously reported. Ideal intubating conditions were achieved in 50% of subjects with remifentanil doses of 3.1-3.7 mcg x kg(-1). Higher doses will be required for higher success rates and with anticholinergic pretreatment, doses of up to 6 mcg x kg(-1) were tolerated, without adverse effects, in two patients. Further investigation of the variability in dose response in infants and assessment of the safety this technique is warranted.