Oral granisetron prevents postoperative vomiting in children

Abstract

We have studied the efficacy of granisetron, a selective 5-hydroxytryptamine type 3 receptor antagonist, administered orally for the prevention of postoperative vomiting after tonsillectomy in children. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 160 paediatric patients, ASA 1, aged 4-10 yr, received placebo or granisetron (20, 40 or 80 micrograms kg-1) (n = 40 each) orally, 1 h before surgery. A standard general anaesthetic technique was used throughout. A complete response, defined as no emesis and no need for another rescue antiemetic during the first 24 h after anaesthesia, occurred in 40%, 48%, 85% and 90% of patients who had received placebo, or granisetron 20, 40 or 80 micrograms kg-1, respectively (P < 0.05; overall Fisher's exact probability test). There were no clinically important adverse events. We conclude that preoperative oral granisetron, in doses more than 40 micrograms kg-1, was effective for the prevention of postoperative vomiting in children.