Reduction of fentanyl-induced cough by low-dose nalbuphine pretreatment during induction of general anesthesia in children: a randomized controlled trial - Summary - MDSpire

Reduction of fentanyl-induced cough by low-dose nalbuphine pretreatment during induction of general anesthesia in children: a randomized controlled trial

  • By

  • Pan He

  • Yingying Tao

  • Yang Shen

  • Zhezhe Peng

  • Mazhong Zhang

  • Ying Sun

  • June 10, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To assess the efficacy and safety of low-dose nalbuphine pretreatment for the reduction of fentanyl-induced cough (FIC) in children during general anesthesia induction, focusing on both clinical outcomes and safety parameters.

Key Findings:
  • Incidence of FIC was significantly lower in the nalbuphine group (18%) compared to the control group (54%), P < 0.001.
  • No significant difference in onset time of cough between groups.
  • Cough severity was lower in the nalbuphine group, P < 0.001.
  • No significant differences in heart rate, blood pressure, or oxygen saturation between groups.
  • No adverse events occurred during induction in either group.
Interpretation:

Low-dose nalbuphine significantly reduces the incidence of FIC during induction of general anesthesia in children without adverse effects, suggesting its potential role in improving perioperative management.

Limitations:
  • The study was limited to a specific age range (2-12 years) and ASA physical status I-II, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
  • The sample size may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Conclusion:

Low-dose nalbuphine 0.02 mg/kg is effective in reducing FIC during general anesthesia induction in pediatric patients.

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