Comparison of Butorphanol and Fentanyl for the Relief of Postoperative Shivering Associated with Spinal Anesthesia

AIM: The aim of this study was to compare fentanyl and butorphanol for the relief of postoperative shivering in spinal anesthesia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 100 American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Class I and II patients aged 19–60 years belonging to both sexes who were posted for elective surgical procedures under spinal anesthesia were divided into two groups (fentanyl and butorphanol) and monitored intraoperatively for the occurrence of shivering and time taken to control shivering after administration of fentanyl and butorphanol drugs. RESULTS: Relief of shivering is rapid and more effective with fentanyl than butorphanol. There is a significant increase in pulse rate, mean arterial pressure, respiratory rate (RR), and decreased in oxygen saturation at the onset of shivering and also a decrease in core body temperature. Sedation, nausea, vomiting, and recurrence of shivering are more with butorphanol with fentanyl. CONCLUSION: On the basis of the study, it is concluded that fentanyl is more effective and takes less time to control perioperative shivering as compared to butorphanol.