Randomised Double-Blind Comparative Study of Dexmedetomidine and Tramadol for Post-Spinal Anaesthesia Shivering.

Abstract

Background And Aims:
Dexmedetomidine has been used for prevention of post anaesthesia shivering. Its use for the
treatment of post-spinal anaesthesia shivering has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was
to evaluate and compare the efficacy, haemodynamic and adverse effects of dexmedetomidine
with those of tramadol, when used for control of post-spinal anaesthesia shivering.
Methods:
A prospective, randomised, study was conducted in 60 American Society of Anaesthesiologists
Grade I and II patients of either gender, aged between 18 and 65 years, scheduled for various
surgical procedures under spinal anaesthesia. The patients were randomised in two groups of 30
patients each to receive either dexmedetomidine 0.5 μg/kg or tramadol 0.5 mg/kg as a slow
intravenous bolus. Grade of shivering, onset of shivering, time for cessation of shivering,
recurrence, response rate, and adverse effects were observed at scheduled intervals. Unpaired ttest was used for analysing the data.
Results:
Time taken for cessation of shivering was significantly less with dexmedetomidine when
compared to tramadol. Nausea and vomiting was observed only in tramadol group (26% and;
22% respectively). There was not much difference in the sedation profile of both the drugs.
Conclusion:
We conclude that although both drugs are effective, the time taken for cessation of shivering is
less with dexmedetomidine when compared to tramadol. Moreover, dexmedetomidine has
negligible adverse effects, whereas tramadol is associated with significant nausea and vomiting.