ABCP Perfusion Basic Science (PBSE) Practice Exam

Sufentanil potency relative to fentanyl?

5x 10x 20x 100x

Correct Answer:

10x

Explanation:

The main idea is comparing how much drug is needed to achieve the same analgesic effect. Sufentanil is significantly more potent than fentanyl, meaning a much smaller amount produces the same pain relief. This is due to its higher affinity for mu opioid receptors and greater lipophilicity, which allow it to bind more effectively and reach receptor sites rapidly. In clinical practice, sufentanil is commonly considered about ten times more potent than fentanyl, so roughly one-tenth the dose of fentanyl can achieve a similar effect. Keep in mind that exact multipliers can vary by context and reference, but tenfold is the typical exam-standard figure. This higher potency is paired with rapid onset, so dosing must be precise to avoid overdose.

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