Background and objectives: Laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation are associated with hemodynamic responses that might increase morbidity and mortality in some patients. Lornoxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which, when added to fentanyl, successfully attenuated the pressor response of intubation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of lornoxicam on the hemodynamic response and serum catecholamine levels following laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation.
Methods: Fifty adult patients scheduled for general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. They were divided into two equal groups to receive intravenously either lornoxicam 16 mg or placebo 30 min before surgery. Mean arterial pressure and heart rate were recorded before and after induction of anaesthesia, and every minute after intubation for 10 min. Serum catecholamine levels were measured before induction and 1 min after intubation.
Results: After induction, there was a significant decrease in blood pressure in both groups. In the first 3 min after tracheal intubation, a significant increase in the hemodynamic parameters and in the serum norepinephrine level was observed in the control group.
Conclusion: Lornoxicam 16 mg attenuates the pressor response to laryngoscopy and intubation of the trachea.