Pilot Study of Physostigmine-Enhanced Opioid Analgesia

Influence of Physostigmine on Patient-Controlled Analgesia

The investigators hypothesize that the administration of physostigmine in the postoperative period after nephrectomy reduces opioid consumption.

Inclusion Criteria:

• At least 18 years old
• At least 50 kg
• Suitable for PCA
• ASA 1-3

Exclusion Criteria:

• Bronchial asthma/severe or exacerbated COPD
• Iritis
• Stenoses/spasms of intestine, urinary tract, biliary tract
• Closed traumatic brain injury
• Severely reduced left ventricular function (EF<30%)
• Recent myocardial infarction
• Recent stroke
• Known allergy or hypersensitivity or contraindications against hydromorphone, physostigmine
• History of alcohol or drug abuse
• Patients enrolled in another study
• Women of childbearing age without a negative pregnancy test