|
Pregnancy
Today's Advisory Panel Answers:
What can you tell me about the
anesthetic fentanyl?
|
Question
I am sixmonths pregnant, and recently got information from my obstetrician about the type
of medication he prefers to use during labor. Its called intrathecal fentanyl. I have been
having some trouble finding out more about it, is there any negative side affects, or
anything I should know about before I consent to the use of this drug? - Elissa, State
College
|
|
Answer
Intrathecal fentanyl is the placement of fentanyl, a synthetic narcotic similar to morphine
or demerol, into the fluid which surrounds the spinal cord - essentially a spinal narcotic.
It is a one time injection placed in a similar fashion as an epidural. Different from an
epidural, the medication is placed into the spinal column as opposed to into the epidural
space.
The pain relief duration of fentanyl is
approximately 4 to 6 hours. Itching is the most common side effect with standard
dosing. Since fentanyl is a narcotic and not a local anesthetic, it will have pain
relief properties without numbing effects.
|
|
Have a
question for one of our experts?
Ask it at the Q & A desk!
|
|
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families. 
