NCIt definition : A synthetic short-acting opioid with analgesic and local anesthesia enhancing activity.
Alfentanil primarily binds to mu-opioid receptor, a G-protein-coupled receptor, thereby
mimicking the actions of morphine, the prototypical mu receptor agonist. This agent
induces anti-nociception responses mediated through inhibiting the release of various
neurotransmitters such as substance P, GABA, dopamine, acetylcholine and noradrenaline;
in addition, the release of vasopressin, somatostatin, insulin and glucagon are also
inhibited.;