[Remifentanil--ultra-short acting opioid and its possible applications in anesthesiology].

Remifentanil is a new, ultra-short acting opioid, which may be applied in several branches of anaesthesia. Data concerning pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics as well as review of references regarding practical use, combining this drug with other anaesthetics agents and side effects are given. Particular attention is paid to the usefulness of remifentanil to provide good control of haemodynamics and stress response during surgical procedures. Remifentanil also seems to be very effective in the intensive care setting and for pain control during various medical procedures.