Effects of Remifentanil on Respiratory Function in Mechanically Ventilated Patients

Effects of Remifentanil on Breathing Pattern, Respiratory Effort and Gas Exchange in Mechanically Ventilated Patients.

Sedation is widely used in mechanically ventilated patients. Propofol, benzodiazepines and opioids are the most used drugs. The study hypothesis is that sedation with remifentanil (an opioid drug) could improved respiratory pattern and effort in mechanically ventilated patients with rapid shallow breathing or high respiratory rate.

Inclusion Criteria:

• pressure support ventilation or CPAP
• respiratory rate > 35.min-1
• respiratory rate/tidal volume > 105

Exclusion Criteria:

• vasoactive agents (dopamine lower than 5 mcg.kg-1.min-1 is not considered as vasoactive agent)
• body temperature > 38 °C
• Glasgow Coma Scale < 9
• FIO2 > 0.6
• PEEP > 10 cmH2O
• pH < 7.30