Effects of Phenylephrine and Ephedrine in Prevention and Treatment of Hypotension During Spinal Anaesthesia for Elective Cesarean Section: A Randomized Controlled Study

Introduction: Hypotension and bradycardia are common side effects of spinal anaesthesia. It can have a potentially deleterious maternal and fetal impact. Phenylephrine is preferred vasopressor in prevention and treatment of post spinal hypotension (PSH) and Ephedrine investigated as an alternative to phenylephrine with promising results. Aim: To compare the efficacy and safety of Ephedrine with Phenylephrine for the prevention and treatment of hypotension under spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery. Methods: This prospective, randomized study was done at tertiary care centre. Total 80patients of ASA I/II posted for elective Cesarean Section were randomly divided into 2 equal groups, Group P (Phenylephrine) received 100ug of Inj. Phenylephrine i.v. and Group E (Ephedrine) received 10mg of Inj. Ephedrine i.v. Result: Incidence of bradycardia was higher in phenylephrine group after induction. SBP, DBP and mean blood pressure measured during pre-operative, per-operative and post-operative periods in both groups showed low incidence of hypotension in Group P as compared to Group E. Conclusion: Phenylephrine is more efficient in managing hypotension during spinal anaesthesia for elective caesarean delivery. Neonatal outcome remains equally good in both the groups.&nbsp