Current opinion in anaesthesiology
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Since the first report of alpha2-adrenoceptor agonists, the list of clinical indications for this class of drugs continues to expand. Alpha2-adrenoceptor agonists have several beneficial actions during the perioperative period. ⋯ Furthermore, alpha2-adrenoceptor agonists may offer benefits in the prophylaxis and treatment of perioperative myocardial ischaemia and their role in pain management and regional anaesthesia is increasing. The development of new, highly selective compounds which not only reduce anaesthetic requirements but induce anaesthesia by themselves may provide a new concept for the administration of anaesthesia.
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Tramadol is a unique analgesic offering moderate, dose-related pain relief through its action at multiple sites. In contrast to pure opioid agonists, it has a low risk of respiratory depression, tolerance and dependence. ⋯ It may have advantages in paediatric and day-case surgery and as an adjunct in local anaesthetic techniques. This review provides an evidence-based account of the role of tramadol in modern practice.
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Curr Opin Anaesthesiol · Jun 2000
Perioperative considerations in the management of the patient taking herbal medicines.
The use of herbal products has recently increased dramatically in the United States. Patients are flocking to use these and many other complementary or alternative therapies. ⋯ The following review will discuss the limitations of Food and Drug Administration protection, and will review as well as provide an outline of the potential adverse reactions and side-effects that might affect anesthesia administration. To date, no double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have been carried out that specifically address herbal-anesthetic interactions or outcomes.
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Over the years, ketamine has found many applications in paediatric anaesthesiology. Recent insights into the mechanism of its central action, and the pharmacology of its isomers have led to a re-evaluation of this drug, expanding the range of indications in adults. The best examples of the uses of ketamine as an analgesic are: in brief diagnostic or therapeutic procedures, during the post-operative period in neonates and infants as well as in paediatric anaesthesia and intensive care.