TREATMENT OF TETANUS

THE USE OF CONTINUOUS ATROPINE SULPHATE INFUSION

Abstract

Objective: (1) To find out the result of drug to what extent it reduces the need for sedatives. (2) To
compare the results with other treatment. Study Design: Prospective analytical. Setting: Tetanus ward D.H.Q.
Hospital Faisalabad/ Subjects & Methods: Six patients with Tetanus were studied Inclusion Criteria: Adult
male&females suffering from Tetanus. Exclusion Criteria: Patient with known peptic ulcer disease and benign
prostatic hyperplasia. Results: Six patients were given trial of Atropine infusions with continuous monitoring of pulse
and blood pressure. Patients were provided conventional sedation along with Atropine infusion. The requirement of
sedative drug was significantly reduced when the dose of Atropine was gradually increased. The patients remained
mentally alert with marked reduction in muscle spasm, convulsion ,no element of anxiety or agitation. Respiratory
problems were minimized. One female expired probably due to septic shock from induced abortion. Conclusion:
Atropine sulphate is cheaper drug ,easily available ,short half life, minimal side effect and much important in developing
and under developed countries where ICU facilities are not available.