“…Rapid redistribution contributes to offset of action, fentanyl is metabolised by CYP3A4 to inactive metabolites, and clearance is only 70-80% of adult levels in neonates but rapidly matures (Tibboel et al, 2005). Fentanyl has been administered by multiple routes for perioperative pain management in neonates (Simons & Anand, 2006) and children , including: IV infusion or PCA (Antila et al, 2006 Level II; Butkovic et al, 2007 Level III-1); intrathecal (Batra et al, 2008 Level II) injection; epidural infusion (Lerman et al, 2003 Level II) and patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) (Saudan et al, 2008 Level III-3). Prolonged IV infusion of fentanyl during neonatal intensive care has been associated with more rapid dose escalation than morphine, but both can produce opioid withdrawal symptoms following rapid cessation (Simons & Anand, 2006).…”