Efficacy of metoclopramide and dexamethasone for postoperative nausea and vomiting: a double-blind clinical trial

ABSTRACT

Postoperative nausea and vomiting are common complications of anaesthesia. This double-blind clinical trial assessed the incidence of nausea and vomiting after cataract surgery with intravenous anaesthesia in 100 patients randomly assigned to preinduction placebo [saline], metoclopramide [10 mg], dexamethasone [8 mg] or the 2 drugs combined. The incidence of nausea in the recovery room was 44% with placebo, 20% with metoclopramide, 16% with dexamethasone and 8% with the combination. The incidence of vomiting was 20%, 4%, 4% and 0% respectively in the 4 groups. Metoclopramide plus dexamethasone combination significantly decreased nausea and vomiting both in the recovery room and 24 hours afterwards and is recommended for high-risk groups, especially in outpatient surgeries