Study of Dexamethasone and N-acetylcysteine to Prevent Brain Problems After Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

What this Trial Is About

Carbon monoxide CO poisoning is a serious health problem that can lead to delayed neuropsychological sequelae DNS, which involve damage due to oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune system injury. While hyperbaric oxygen therapy is commonly used, its ability to prevent DNS is uncertain. Researchers are studying whether combining Dexamethasone, an anti-inflammatory drug, with N-acetylcysteine, an antioxidant, can better prevent these delayed effects after CO poisoning. The study evaluates two groups one receiving a combination treatment of Dexamethasone and N-acetylcysteine, and a control group receiving a placebo. The Dexamethasone is given as a 10mg intravenous dose immediately and once daily for three days, while N-acetylcysteine is administered intravenously at 200 mgkg over 4 hours, followed by 100 mgkg over 16 hours. This randomized, triple-masked trial aims to compare the incidence of DNS between the treated and control groups. Participants will be monitored for the development of delayed neurological sequelae at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months through clinical evaluations. Cognitive function will also be assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination at these time points. The study will track safety and outcomes to determine if the combination treatment reduces the risk of cognitive and neurological problems after CO poisoning, with a total follow-up of at least three months.

The Efficacy of Dexamethasone in Combination With N-acetylcysteine in Preventing Neurocognitive Sequelae Due to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning