Ocfentanil | The JHI

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Ocfentanil

Found in:  

Fentanyl

Type/Reason added:  

Fentanyl Analog

Relative Potency:  

90 times more potent than morphine, 1.7-2.5 times stronger than fentanyl (11,12)

Overview

The Effects

Treatment Options

Supportive Care:

Artificial respiration, oxygen therapy, and intensive care monitoring.

Antidote:

Emergency treatment for ocfentanil overdose includes rapid administration of naloxone (Narcan), often in multiple doses due to its extreme potency.

Pharmacokinetics and Dynamics

Metabolism:

Ocfentanil is primarily metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4 enzymes, similar to fentanyl. It is broken down into inactive metabolites and excreted primarily in the urine. The drug has a rapid onset but may have a longer half-life than fentanyl, prolonging its effects.

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Ocfentanil has dangerous interactions with central nervous system depressants such as benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam), alcohol, barbiturates, and other opioids. Combining ocfentanil with these substances significantly increases the risk of fatal respiratory depression. It may also interact with CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as grapefruit juice or certain antibiotics), which can increase its potency and duration of action, leading to overdose at lower doses.