Phenylephrine for Blood Loss in Burn Surgery

This trial tests whether phenylephrine, a medication used to increase blood pressure, can reduce blood loss during burn surgery without affecting heart rate or blood pressure. Traditionally, epinephrine is used, but it can alter these vital signs. Participants will receive injections of either phenylephrine or epinephrine to determine which is more effective and safer. The trial seeks individuals with burns requiring skin grafts, covering 5-30% of their body, excluding areas like the head, hands, or feet. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this treatment.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are on anticoagulants (except NSAIDs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, or beta-blockers.

Research has shown that phenylephrine, the treatment tested in this study, is generally safe for people. Phenylephrine primarily targets specific areas in the body, minimizing side effects related to heart rate and blood pressure.

Previous studies have found that phenylephrine can reduce blood loss during surgeries. For example, phenylephrine nasal drops have successfully reduced bleeding in children's surgeries. In other procedures, such as cesarean deliveries, phenylephrine has been well-tolerated and has helped maintain stable blood pressure.

Most treatments for blood loss during burn surgery, like epinephrine, act by constricting blood vessels, which helps to reduce bleeding. However, phenylephrine offers a unique approach. Unlike other treatments, phenylephrine specifically targets alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, which may provide a more controlled way to manage blood loss without affecting heart rate significantly. Researchers are excited about phenylephrine because it could offer a more precise and potentially safer option for patients undergoing such surgeries.

Research has shown that phenylephrine, which participants in this trial may receive, helps maintain steady blood pressure during certain medical procedures. It effectively prevents low blood pressure without significantly affecting heart rate. This makes it a promising option for reducing blood loss in surgeries, such as those for burn injuries, without the heart-related side effects associated with epinephrine, another treatment option in this trial. Phenylephrine primarily works by narrowing blood vessels, aiding in bleeding control. Overall, evidence supports its potential to manage blood loss while keeping heart rate and blood pressure stable.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰