Cost Analysis And Safety Comparison Of Atracurium And Cisatracurium In Patient Undergoing General Anesthesia

Abstract

The neuromuscular blocking agent plays an essential role in balanced anaesthesia, and the introduction of skeletal muscle relaxants has revolutionised the field of anaesthesia and critical care. In the operation theatre, skeletal muscle relaxants are used for two purposes: one is to do endotracheal intubation, and another purpose is to give relaxation during surgery. Atracurium and cisatracurium, intermediate acting, benzylisoquinolone Non depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents, are used for endotracheal intubation when there is a contraindication for succinylcholine. These drugs have fewer side effects, and organ-independent elimination has made it the most commonly used neuromuscular agent. The present study is designed to evaluate the adverse drug reactions and economic benefits of both drugs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 140 patients scheduled to undergo elective surgery under general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation and required intraoperative neuromuscular blockade. The study subjects were randomly split into two groups of 70 each. Group A: 70 patients receiving Atracurium 0.5mg/kg Group B: 70 patients receiving cisatracurium 0.15mg/kg Atracurium and cisatracurium were given to the patients just before endotracheal intubation and were assessed for adverse drug reactions and cost benefit between both drugs RESULT The hemodynamics like MAP, PR, SPO2, ECG, other clinical features, adverse reactions, and the drug's cost were assessed. In terms of side effects, both drugs provide similar safety profiles, and cisatracurium is slightly a safer drug as it does not cause much hemodynamic changes and nil histamine release and can safely used in asthma and other histamine related disorders. In terms of cost comparison, Atracurium has economic benefits than cisatracurium CONCLUSION Both drugs have a similar safety profile, and cisatracurium is a better choice for patients with hemodynamic instability and those with a risk of histamine related disorders like asthma and anaphylaxis. In terms of economic benefit, atracurium is a better choice.