The comparison of Dexamethasone and Metoclopramide effects on postoperative nausea and vomiting

Postoperative nausea and vomiting is one of the most common problems in postoperative period. Patient's who are at high risk of PONV, may receive anti-nausea and vomiting drugs. The most common drug is Metoclopramide, but it,s extrapiramidal signs and side effects such as lethargy, dizziness and headache especially in children lead us to perform this study, in order to compare Dexamethasone and Metoclopramide effects in PONV prevention. This study was a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial. 262 patients (2-25 years) in ASA class I,II which were candidates for ENT, eye and laparatomy surgeries, divided into two groups randomly. One group received 0.1 mg/kg Dexamethasone IV and the other group received 0.1mg/kg Metoclopramide IV, 10-15 minuets before operation ending time. During recovery, the frequency of PONV was assessed. Data was analyzed by Pearson test. PONV frequency in the two groups had no significant difference. Also PONV rate in the two groups had no significant difference in male and female. In prevention and treatment of PONV, Dexamethasone effect was same as Metoclopramide. Considering low expense, avalibility and low side effects, Dexamethasone is a proper substitute for Metoclopramide in surgeries with high risk of PONV.