COMPARISON OF DEXMEDETOMIDINE, PETHIDINE, AND TRAMADOL IN THE TREATMENT OF POST-NEURAXIAL ANESTHESIA SHIVERING: A PROSPECTIVE DOUBLE-BLINDED BLOCK RANDOMIZATION STUDY

Abstract

Background: Shivering following neuraxial anesthesia is common and distressing, affecting patient comfort and hemodynamic stability. Several pharmacologic agents like dexmedetomidine, pethidine, and tramadol are used for managing shivering with varying efficacy and side effects.

Objective: To compare efficacy and safety of dexmedetomidine, pethidine, and tramadol in treating post-neuraxial anesthesia shivering and assess effects on hemodynamic parameters.

Methods: In this prospective double-blinded randomized study, 90 patients (ASA grade 1 and 2) with shivering scores 3 and 4 under neuraxial anesthesia were randomly assigned to receive dexmedetomidine 0.5 μg/kg, pethidine 0.5 mg/kg, or tramadol 0.5 mg/kg intravenously, diluted to 5 ml. Shivering intensity and vital signs were recorded at baseline and at 5-minute intervals up to 30 minutes post-treatment. Side effects and sedation levels were monitored.

Results and Conclusion: [To be completed based on collected data] All three drugs effectively reduced shivering with variable hemodynamic changes and side effect profiles, guiding clinical drug choice post-neuraxial anesthesia.