Duloxetine in Reducing Catheter-Related Bladder Discomfort: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

OBJECTIVE: The excessive desire to void with discomfort in the supra-pubic region, which is experienced postoperatively by patients who underwent urinary catheterization, is known as catheter-related bladder discomfort. In this study, we evaluated duloxetine, a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, in preventing catheter-related bladder discomfort. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Around 64 adults (18-60 years), of either sex, with American Society of American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I and II, scheduled to undergo elective gastrointestinal carcinoma surgeries under general anesthesia were analyzed in the final assessment of 2 comparative groups C and D of 32 patients each. Group D received 1 ranitidine tablet of 150 mg and 1 duloxetine tablet of 60 mg, while group C patients received 2 tablets of ranitidine of 75 mg 2 hours prior to induction. A 16 F Foley catheter was used to catheterize bladder intra-operatively, and 10 mL of distilled water was used to fill the balloon. At 0, 1, 2, and 6 hours, the catheter-related bladder discomfort was evaluated, and categorized into none, mild, moderate, and severe. The study drug's adverse effects, if any, were reported. RESULTS: At all-time intervals, group D had lower incidence and severity of catheter-related bladder discomfort than group C (P < .05). Compared to group C, patients in group D had a higher incidence of nausea, dizziness, and vomiting; nevertheless, the difference was statistically insignificant (P > .05). CONCLUSION: Duloxetine of 60 mg given orally 2 hours before induction decreases the incidence and severity of catheter-related bladder discomfort.