Using Methadone Instead of Fentanyl to Help Patients Breathe on Their Own
Author Information
Author(s): Wanzuita R, Westphal G, Pfuetzenreiter F, Ayres S, Cavalcanti A, Figueiredo LP
Primary Institution: Medical School, University of Joinville, Joinville - SC, Brazil
Hypothesis
Replacing fentanyl infusion by enteral methadone decreases weaning time from mechanical ventilation.
Conclusion
Replacing fentanyl infusion by enteral methadone reduces the weaning time from mechanical ventilation.
Supporting Evidence
- The study involved 75 randomized patients, with 68 analyzed after exclusions.
- The methadone group showed a greater probability of successful weaning on the fifth day.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether giving methadone instead of fentanyl helps patients get off breathing machines faster. It found that methadone can help reduce the time needed to stop using the machine.
Methodology
A prospective, randomized and double-blind study involving patients at high risk for fentanyl abstinence syndrome.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and some patients were excluded from analysis.
Participant Demographics
Adult patients who were mechanically ventilated and at high risk for fentanyl withdrawal.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.21
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 0.81 to 2.56
Statistical Significance
p<0.004
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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