Comparison of Prophylactic Antiemetic Effects of Ondansetron Versus Haloperidol in Patients Undergoing Mastectomy: A Double-Blind Randomized Trial

Abstract

Background: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is one of the most common complaints after surgery and anesthesia, and it is considered a risk factor after mastectomy. Given these findings, preventing PONV in patients undergoing various surgical procedures is of great importance. Objectives: The present study aimed to compare the preventive effects of haloperidol and ondansetron on PONV in transgender patients undergoing bilateral mastectomy. Methods: This randomized, double-blind clinical trial evaluated the effectiveness of haloperidol (2 mg IV) versus ondansetron (4 mg IV) in managing PONV in patients aged 18 to 65 years with ASA classifications of 1 or 2. Patients were monitored for vital signs and received compensatory fluids postoperatively. The severity of nausea and vomiting was assessed using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at multiple time points: Recovery, 0.5 hours, 1 hour, 2 hours, 6 hours, and 24 hours post-surgery. Results: No significant difference was observed in the mean age between the haloperidol (26.68 ± 4.65 years) and ondansetron (27.24 ± 4.15 years) groups (P = 0.65). At none of the postoperative assessment time points (30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 6 hours, and 24 hours) was there a statistically significant difference in the incidence of PONV between the two groups. Conclusions: In conclusion, there were no significant differences in effectiveness between haloperidol and ondansetron for managing PONV at various time points after surgery. Both medications are equally effective, so physicians should choose based on patient characteristics, surgery type, and timing of administration.