Clinical Report: Efficacy of Low-Dose Nalbuphine Pretreatment in Pediatric Patients

Overview

This study demonstrates that low-dose nalbuphine pretreatment significantly reduces the incidence of fentanyl-induced cough (FIC) during general anesthesia induction in children. The findings indicate a notable decrease in cough severity without adverse events.

Background

Fentanyl-induced cough is a common complication during anesthesia induction, particularly in pediatric patients, and can lead to adverse events. Reducing the incidence of FIC is crucial for enhancing perioperative safety and comfort. This study investigates the efficacy of low-dose nalbuphine as a preventive measure against FIC in children.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Low-dose nalbuphine (0.02 mg/kg) reduced FIC incidence from 54% to 18%.
• Cough severity was significantly lower in the nalbuphine group compared to the control group.
• No significant differences in vital signs were observed between the two groups.
• No adverse events occurred during the induction of anesthesia in either group.
• This is the first study to evaluate nalbuphine's effect on FIC in pediatric patients.

Clinical Implications

The use of low-dose nalbuphine may be a safe and effective strategy to mitigate FIC during anesthesia induction in children. Clinicians should consider this approach to enhance patient comfort and reduce potential complications associated with FIC.

Conclusion

Low-dose nalbuphine pretreatment is effective in significantly reducing the incidence and severity of fentanyl-induced cough in pediatric patients undergoing general anesthesia. Further studies may help establish its routine use in clinical practice.

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10. Oral Nalbuphine in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis-Associated Cough: The CORAL Randomized Clinical Trial - PubMed