Comparing Oral Ketamine and Oral Clonidine for Sedation and Opioid Use in Children Undergoing Elective Lower Abdominal Day Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of oral ketamine versus oral clonidine on sedation levels and opioid use in children aged 3 to 12 undergoing elective lower abdominal day-case surgery. The study aims to better manage preoperative anxiety and postoperative stress responses, which can cause negative behavioral changes in children. This trial explores alternatives to traditional sedatives like midazolam, focusing on sedation effectiveness and opioid requirements during surgery. Participants are randomly assigned to receive either oral clonidine at 4 micrograms per kilogram or oral ketamine at 10 milligrams per kilogram, both given 60 minutes before surgery in a sip of water. The trial compares sedation levels before and after surgery and tracks opioid use during the operation. Two groups are studied to assess differences in sedation and pain management effects. Throughout the study, sedation levels are measured 60 minutes after drug administration, at the time of separation from parents. Researchers also monitor fentanyl use at multiple points during surgery and check for postoperative emergence delirium at intervals up to 60 minutes after surgery. Participants are closely observed for safety, and the study runs until November 2026, involving repeated assessments to understand the drugs impact on sedation and pain control in pediatric patients.

Premedication in Children: a Clinical Trial Comparing Oral Ketamine and Oral Clonidine With Respect to Sedation Level and Opioid Consumption in Pediatrics Undergoing Elective Lower Abdominal Day-case Surgery.