Effectiveness of alimemazine in controlling retching after Nissen fundoplication

J Pediatr Surg. 2005 Nov;40(11):1737-40. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2005.07.054.

Abstract

Background: Retching, an early component of the emetic reflex, is a common and distressing symptom in children after Nissen fundoplication. Alimemazine (trimeprazine, Vallergan; Castlemead, Herts, UK) is a phenothiazine derivative histamine(1) antagonist, which anecdotally relieves the retching symptoms.

Material and methods: A prospective, double-blind, randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled study of 15 neurologically impaired children with retching after Nissen fundoplication over a period of 1 year (December 2002-December 2003). Patients were randomly allocated to receive 1 week each of alimemazine and placebo with crossover. A diary was maintained of retching episodes 1 week before, during, and 1 week after the trial. Dosage of alimemazine used was 0.25 mg/kg 3 times a day (maximum, 2.5 mg per dose). Statistical analysis was done using a paired Student's t test, where P value of less than .05 was considered significant. Results are presented as mean +/- SD.

Results: Twelve parents completed the diaries (9 open, 3 laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication). Median age of the child was 36 months (8-180 months), median duration of retching was 4.5 months (1-52 months), and mean number of retching episodes per week was 60 +/- 29.40. Mean number of retching episodes with alimemazine was 10.42 +/- 9.48 vs 47.67 +/- 27.79 with a placebo (P < .0001). No adverse effects were reported in those cases that completed the study.

Conclusion: At low dose, alimemazine (Vallergan) is a safe and effective drug in the management of retching after Nissen fundoplication.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Antipruritics / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Fundoplication*
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / surgery
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Postoperative Complications / drug therapy*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Trimeprazine / therapeutic use*
  • Vomiting / drug therapy*
  • Vomiting / etiology

Substances

  • Antipruritics
  • Trimeprazine