ABSTRACT
Objective: Carboprost is used to prevent postpartum hemorrhage in pregnant patients but is associated with severe nauseaandvomiting. This a study was done to compare ondansetron and P6 point acupuncture stimulation for prevention of carboprost induced nauseaandvomiting. Methodology: Fifty ASA class I and II full term pregnant patients scheduled for elective cesarean section were r and omly 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 nauseaandvomiting for two hours postoperatively. Results: Overall incidence of nauseaandvomiting was significantly less in Group-P than in Group-O, however, there was no significant difference in incidence of nauseaandvomiting 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 nauseaandvomiting in the immediate postoperative period. Key words: Carboprost, Cesarean section, Nauseaandvomiting, P6 acupuncture, Ondansetron