Dimenhydrinate decreases vomiting after strabismus surgery in children

Dimenhydrinate, an H1-receptor antagonist, has been used to both prevent and treat postoperative vomiting (POV) in children for several decades. However, its effectiveness for POV after strabismus surgery remains anecdotal. This study was designed to determine the effectiveness and side effects of dimenhydrinate for the prevention of POV in children after strabismus surgery. Eighty ASA physical status I or II children, ages 1-12 yr inclusive, who were undergoing strabismus surgery, were prospectively and randomly allocated to receive either dimenhydrinate 0.5 mg/kg intravenously (n = 40) or placebo (n = 40) at induction of anesthesia. The incidence of POV and the times to arousal (and discharge from the recovery room and hospital) were recorded postoperatively in a double blinded manner. For 24 h after discharge from the hospital, all emetic episodes and medications given were recorded by the parents. Demographic data did not differ between the groups. Children who received dimenhydrinate had significantly less POV both inhospital (10%) and overall (30%) than those who received placebo (in-hospital 38%, P < 0.008; overall 65%, P < 0.003). The times to arousal and discharge from the hospital did not differ between the two groups. Dimenhydrinate (0.5 mg/kg) is an effective, safe, and inexpensive antiemetic in children undergoing strabismus surgery. It significantly reduces the incidence of vomiting for 24 h postoperatively and is not associated with prolonged sedation or other adverse effects.