ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: This study was undertaken to reduce the side effects of epidural morphine through the addition of nalbuphine in 37 cesarean delivery. METHODS: Forty patients were divided into 2 groups; M(control) group: bolus administration of morphine 2 mg in 0.5% bupivacaine and continuous epidural 41 hour-infusion of morphine 7mg, N(experimental) group: bolus administration of morphine 2 mg in 0.5% bupivacaine combined with nalbuphine 10mg and continuous epidural 41 hour-infusion of morphine 7mg combined with nalbuphine 10mg via the Paragon infusor. RESULTS: During the postoperative 48 hours, their pain scores and side effects were recorded at 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 and 48 hours. The analgesic effects were good in two groups(mean VAS <3.0) and pain scores were statistically significant at 18 and 30 hour. The incidence of pruritus, nausea, vomiting and urinary retention was decreased in group N(p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: We concluded that continuous epidural morphine combined with nalbuphine was one of recommendable methods to reduce side effects of morphine.