Effect of Pregabalin Premedication on Emergence Agitation in Children after Sevoflurane Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND: Emergence agitation (EA) is common in pediatrics after sevoflurane anesthesia. AIMS: We intended to study the effect of preoperative pregabalin on EA in pediatrics after sevoflurane anesthesia. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This study design was a prospective randomized controlled double-blinded study. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixty children with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Classes I–II, aged 4–10 years, prepared for adenotonsillectomy under sevoflurane anesthesia were randomized to two equal groups (control Group C and pregabalin Group P). Children received either placebo syrup (Group C) or pregabalin syrup 1.5 mg/kg (Group P) ½ h preoperatively. We recorded postoperative EA scale (EAS) (10, 20, and 30 min postoperatively), time to open the eye, time to extubate, postanesthesia care unit (PACU) duration of stay, number of paracetamol doses (15 mg/kg) given (to control postoperative pain), and complications as vomiting and dizziness on discharge. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Independent sample t-test and Chi-square test were used as appropriate. RESULTS: Pregabalin Group P showed less EAS, less analgesic (paracetamol) requirement, and less vomiting with insignificant effects on time to open the eye or extubation and PACU duration of stay compared to control group. CONCLUSION: Preoperative pregabalin decreased postoperative EAS, analgesic (paracetamol) requirement, and vomiting in pediatrics after adenotonsillectomy using sevoflurane anesthesia without affecting time to open the eye or extubation and PACU duration of stay.