Effects of Remifentanil Pretreatment on Sufentanil-induced Cough Suppression During the Induction of General Anesthesia.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of remifentanil pretreatment on sufentanil-induced cough during general anesthesia induction.

Design: This experimental research was conducted as a single-center, randomized, parallel-group trial.

Methods: A total of 120 patients scheduled for elective surgery were equally randomized into two groups (remifentanil and control). The incidence and severity of coughing in both groups were recorded after sufentanil administration during general anesthesia induction. The mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and pulse oxygen saturation were recorded at T (before the injection of remifentanil or normal saline), T (1 minute after remifentanil administration), T (before intubation), and T (1 minute after intubation). Additionally, the incidences of adverse events, including dizziness, nausea, apnea, truncal rigidity, bradycardia, or other adverse effects were also recorded.

Findings: The incidence of sufentanil-induced cough in the remifentanil group was significantly decreased when compared with the control group (5.0% vs 35.0%, respectively; P < .001). No statistical differences were found in mean arterial pressure, heart rate, pulse oxygen saturation, and the incidences of other side effects between the two groups at T, T, T, and T (P > .05).

Conclusions: Pretreatment with remifentanil at a dose of 0.5 mcg/kg can effectively and safely suppress the incidence and severity of sufentanil-induced coughing, providing a reference for medication during general anesthesia induction.