Key result
Epidural block during labor significantly inhibited the progressive increase of plasma epinephrine and cortisol seen with meperidine, but did not significantly reduce norepinephrine levels.
Why the study?
Does epidural block reduce plasma catecholamines and cortisol in healthy parturients during labour and delivery?
Cohort (n=26)
Does epidural block reduce plasma catecholamines and cortisol in healthy parturients during labour and delivery?
Epidural block effectively blunts the stress response (epinephrine and cortisol) during labour compared to intramuscular meperidine.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Epidural use may blunt labor stress response; leaves open outcome benefits in randomized trials.
Neumark et al. (1985) conducted a cohort in Labour and delivery (n=26). Epidural block vs. Meperidine 50 mg intramuscularly was evaluated on Plasma epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol levels. Epidural block during labor significantly inhibited the progressive increase of plasma epinephrine and cortisol seen with meperidine, but did not significantly reduce norepinephrine levels.
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