A comparison of ondansetron and P6 point acupuncture stimulation in prevention of carboprost induced nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing cesarean section under subarachnoid block

Abstract

Objective: Carboprost is used to prevent postpartum hemorrhage in pregnant patients but is associated
with severe nausea and vomiting .This a study was done to compare ondansetron and P6 point acupuncture
stimulation for prevention of carboprost induced nausea and vomiting.
Methodology: Fifty ASA class I and II full term pregnant patients scheduled for elective cesarean section
were randomly allocated into Group-O (n=25) and Group-P (n=25). Subarachnoid block (SAB) was
administered in both groups using inj.0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine in L3-L4 interspace to achieve a
level between T4 to T6. Inj.carboprost 250 mcg was given intramuscularly after the delivery of anterior
shoulder in both groups. In addition Group-O inj. Ondansetron was given and in Group-P acupuncture
was applied at P6 acupoint. Mean arterial pressures were maintained within 20% of baseline. Both groups
were observed for nausea and vomiting for two hours postoperatively.
Results: Overall incidence of nausea and vomiting was significantly less in Group-P than in Group-O,
however, there was no significant difference in incidence of nausea and vomiting among the two groups
when considered individually.
Conclusion: We conclude that stimulation of P6 point by acupuncture in comparison to ondansetron
decreases the overall incidence of carboprost induced nausea and vomiting in the immediate postoperative
period.