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Propranolol reduces the anxiety associated with day case surgery
The European Journal of Surgery = Acta Chirurgica
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Propranolol, a non-cardioselective beta-blocker, effectively reduced anxiety in patients undergoing day case surgery. This low-dose intervention significantly improved patient anxiety levels before discharge.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmacology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Day case surgery is increasingly common.
- Anxiety is a significant concern for patients undergoing surgery.
- Non-cardioselective beta-blockers may have anxiolytic properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of propranolol in reducing pre-operative anxiety in day case surgery patients.
- To assess the impact of a low dose of propranolol on patient anxiety levels.
Main Methods:
- Prospective randomized double-blind trial conducted at a university hospital.
- 53 patients undergoing day case surgery were randomized.
- Patients received either 10 mg propranolol or placebo on the morning of surgery.
Main Results:
- The propranolol group showed significantly lower Hospital Anxiety and Depression scores compared to the placebo group (2.5 vs. 4.6, p < 0.0001).
- Anxiety reduction was observed before hospital discharge.
Conclusions:
- A low dose of propranolol administered on the morning of day case surgery is effective in significantly reducing patient anxiety.
- Propranolol represents a viable pharmacological option for managing anxiety in ambulatory surgical settings.