Dexamethasone vs. Alpha-2 Agonists in Cesarean Section Anesthesia: A Prospective Study from Sirte Teaching Hospital
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37375/susj.v16i1.4100Keywords:
Cesarean section, spinal anesthesia, dexamethasone, dexmedetomidine, clonidine, postoperative analgesiaAbstract
Background: Effective postoperative pain control after cesarean section improves maternal recovery and reduces opioid use. This study compared intrathecal dexamethasone, dexmedetomidine, and clonidine as spinal anesthesia adjuvants.
Methods: In this prospective randomized study, 60 women undergoing elective cesarean section at Sirte Teaching Hospital, Libya, were allocated into three groups (n=20) receiving intrathecal bupivacaine with dexamethasone, dexmedetomidine, or clonidine. Outcomes included analgesia duration, sensory block onset, hemodynamics, sedation, PONV, opioid use, and satisfaction.
Results: Dexamethasone provided the longest analgesia and lowest PONV incidence with minimal side effects. Dexmedetomidine produced faster sensory block onset and greater opioid-sparing effects but increased bradycardia and sedation. Clonidine showed moderate analgesic prolongation with mild hypotension and sedation. Satisfaction was highest with dexmedetomidine.
Conclusion: Dexamethasone showed the best balance of efficacy and safety, while dexmedetomidine improved satisfaction but caused more sedation and bradycardia.
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