A Comparison Between Oral Melatonin and Oral Dexmedetomidine As Pre medication In Paediatric Anesthesia

Abstract

Background:

Preoperative anxiety in children is a common challenge, often triggered by the anticipation of pain, separation from parents, and fear of surgery. Effective premedication can significantly improve perioperative experiences and outcomes. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of oral dexmedetomidine and melatonin in alleviating preoperative anxiety in paediatric patients.

Materials and methods:

This prospective observational study was done in 92 children aged 2-10 years, belonging to ASA I and II, undergoing elective infraumbilical surgeries under general anesthesia. Patients were allocated into two groups: Group D received oral dexmedetomidine 3 µg/kg, and Group M received oral melatonin 0.5 mg/kg, administered orally 40 minutes prior to induction. Vital signs were monitored at 5-minute intervals. Sedation levels were assessed using the Ramsay Sedation Score and ease of parental separation by the Child–Parent Separation Score. Prior to induction, mask acceptance was assessed with Mask acceptance score. Postoperative sleep disturbances were assessed two weeks later using Post-Hospitalization Behaviour Questionnaire.

Results:

Group D demonstrated significantly higher sedation levels, smoother parental separation, and better mask acceptance compared to Group M (p < 0.001). No significant difference was observed in postoperative sleep disturbances between the groups as per Post-Hospitalization Behaviour Questionnaire findings.

Conclusion:

Oral dexmedetomidine provides superior preoperative sedation, facilitates easier parent–child separation, and improves mask acceptance in pediatric patients compared to melatonin.