Comparison of Analgesic Efficacy of Paracetamol and Pethidine for Pain Relief in Active Labor

Abstract

Background and Objective: Using pain-relieving drugs during labor is now part of standard care in many countries throughout the world. There are many methods for reducing pain in labor time and each method has its own risks and benefits. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of pethidine versus paracetamol as an analgesic during labor in pregnant women. Methods: In this clinical trial study, 100 women expected to have a natural childbirth were observed and then randomly allocated two groups. The first groups receive paracetamol and the second group receives pethidine. The intensity of labor pain experienced by the subjects and the outcome of delivery were collected by a checklist. Results: There was a significant difference between the average pain score in paracetamol and pethidine groups in 30 minutes after intervention, but there was not a significant difference between the severity of the pain in two groups before intervention and 10 and 60min after intervention. No significant differences were seen regarding duration and interval of uterine contractions, neonatal complications, first minute Apgar score and side effects of used drugs between the two studied groups. There was a significant difference between the average of fifth minute Apgar score and mother SBP and RR after intervention between two groups. Conclusions: Use of paracetamol reduces pain more than pethidine within 30 minutes after intervention