Effects of remifentanyl and fentanyl on LPS-induced cytokine release in human whole blood in vitro

Aim The present study sought insight into the effects of remifentanyl and fentanyl on LPS-induced release of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and IL-10 in human whole blood. Methods Whole blood was incubated in the presence and absence of remifentanyl and fentanyl. Effects of remifentanyl and fentanyl on spontaneous and endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide; 100 ng ml(-1))-stimulated cytokine release were studied in whole blood from volunteers (n = 10) cultured for 6 h. Results IL-6, TNF-alpha and IL-10 concentrations in groups added with LPS were significantly higher than those in control group (P < 0.01). IL-6, TNF-alpha and IL-10 concentrations in activation groups treated with remifentanyl or fentanyl were significantly lower than those in LPS treated group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences on IL-6,TNF-alpha and IL-10 concentrations in drug-alone groups compared with control group (P > 0.05). Conclusion Remifentanyl or fentanyl alone has no effects on IL-6, TNF-alpha and IL-10 production, but could attenuate LPS-induced IL-6,TNF-alpha and IL-10 production in human whole blood. Remifentanyl and fentanyl could inhibit the expressions of IL-6, TNF-alpha and IL-10 induced by LPS.