A Blinded Randomized Study of Ephedrine 0.15 mg/kg for Reducing Onset Time of Rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg in Elderly Patients (≥ 80 Years)

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to determine how quickly rocuronium begins to work after giving ephedrine 0.15 mg/kg in patients aged 80 years and older. Elderly patients often face higher risks during anesthesia due to age-related changes in organ function, body composition, and drug processing. The study tests whether ephedrine can shorten the time it takes for rocuronium to take effect compared to a placebo. This is important because rocuronium helps with tracheal intubation during surgery, and a faster onset could improve intubation safety and conditions in older adults. Participants will receive either ephedrine at a dose based on ideal or actual body weight or a saline placebo during anesthesia induction. The rocuronium dose is 0.6 mg/kg for all. The study is randomized and triple-blinded, with two groups comparing the effects of ephedrine versus saline. The timing of rocuronium onset is monitored using train-of-four stimulation at the ulnar nerve. Additional measures include intubation difficulty and cardiac responses during anesthesia induction. Participants will be monitored closely during and after anesthesia induction. Researchers will assess the time from rocuronium administration to neuromuscular blockade, intubation conditions using specific scales, and any cardiac arrhythmias occurring shortly after drug administration. Blood pressure changes and recovery times are also recorded. The primary outcome is measured within one hour, and other assessments occur up to four hours after treatment. The study provides detailed evaluation to understand ephedrine's impact on rocuronium onset in the elderly.

Ephedrine for Reducing Onset Time of Rocurinium in Elderly Patients