Nalbuphine versus dexmedetomidine for treatment of combined spinal-epidural post-anesthetic shivering in pregnant women undergoing cesarean section

Objective This study aimed to compare the clinical efficacy and side effects of nalbuphine and dexmedetomidine for treatment of combined spinal-epidural anesthetic shivering in women after cesarean section. Methods A total of 120 pregnant women, who underwent elective cesarean section under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia, were enrolled in a double-blind, randomized study. These women were randomized into three groups of 40 pregnant women each to receive either saline (group C), nalbuphine 0.07 mg/kg (group N), or dexmedetomidine 0.5 µg/kg (group D) for treatment of shivering after anesthesia. The main outcome measure was a significant reduction in the time required for shivering after intervention. Results The mean time to cessation of shivering in groups N and D was significantly shorter than that in group C (3.5±2.7 and 4.2±3.7 versus 14.5±1.4 minutes). The success rate of shivering treatment and Observer’s Assessment of Alertness/Sedation scores in groups N and D were significantly higher than those in group C, while the recurrence rate was lower than that in group C. Conclusion Nalbuphine 0.07 mg/kg can be used safely and effectively for shivering in pregnant women under combined spinal-epidural anesthesia.