Comparison of intranasal dexmedetomidine and ketamine for paediatric premedication: A randomized study.

Intranasal ketamine at 5 mg/kg is more effective than intranasal dexmedetomidine at 1 mcg/kg for premedication in children aged 2–10 years undergoing general anesthesia. The trial assessed response to intravenous cannulation using the FLACC scale and found significantly higher scores (indicating more pain or distress) in the dexmedetomidine group. Heart rate was significantly lower with dexmedetomidine. Adverse events occurred in 8% of children who received ketamine.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Paediatric patients are given premedication in order to decrease preoperative anxiety, allow smooth induction, and prevent postoperative psychological insult and behavioural changes. A child friendly method of administration is desirable. We compared intranasal administration of dexmedetomidine and ketamine in the operating room environment, to evaluate the Faces, Legs, Activity, Cry and Consolability (FLACC) score at the time of establishing intravenous access for induction of general anaesthesia. This prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary care center. One hundred patients, 2-10 years of age, ASA physical status 1 & 2, scheduled for general anaesthesia were enrolled. Patient's presedation behaviour was assessed by the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale Short Form (mYPAS-SF). Patients in Group D received Dexmedetomidine 1 mcg/kg intranasally, and patients in Group K received Ketamine 5 mg/kg intranasally. After 45 min, patients were transferred to the operating table where intravenous cannulation was carried out and the response to needle insertion was assessed by FLACC scale. Vital signs, including the pulse-oximetry, heart rate and respiratory rate were monitored. Side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and agitation were also recorded. A significantly higher FLACC score was seen in Group D as compared to Group K (p = 0.001). The mean heart rate between two groups was found to be significantly (p = 0.001) lower in Group D compared to Group K. However, the proportion of adverse events was 8% in patients who received ketamine. Intranasal ketamine in a dose of 5 mg/kg is clinically more effective as premedication in children aged 2-10 years in comparison with intranasal dexmedetomidine in a dose of 1 mcg/kg.