Comparing three medications for pain management in young children during minor procedures

Randomized Controlled Trial of Intranasal (IN) Midazolam vs IN Dexmedetomidine vs IN Ketamine Evaluating Length of Stay After Medication Administration and Anxiolysis During Minimal Procedures in Pediatric Population in Pediatric Emergency Department

Phase 4 Interventional University of Oklahoma · NCT05934669

This study is testing three different nasal medications to see which one helps young children feel less pain and anxiety during minor procedures in the emergency room.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages1 Year to 5 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Oklahoma Academic / other
Locations1 site (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
Trial IDNCT05934669 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of three intranasal medications—Midazolam, Dexmedetomidine, and Ketamine—in managing anxiety and pain during laceration repairs in pediatric patients aged 1-5 years. The goal is to determine which medication results in the shortest emergency department stay and highest satisfaction for both patients and providers. By comparing these medications, the study aims to improve the overall experience for children undergoing painful procedures in the emergency department. The research will also assess the pharmacokinetics and safety profiles of these medications in a pediatric setting.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 1-5 years presenting to the emergency department for suture repair of lacerations less than or equal to 5cm.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 12 months or older than 5 years, or those with specific medical conditions or contraindications to the medications will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management strategies for young children, enhancing their overall experience during emergency procedures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown varying success with similar approaches, but this specific comparison of these three medications in a pediatric emergency setting is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 1-5 years old
* Presents to the ED for suture repair for lacerations less than or equal to 5cm in length
* Parent(s)/Caregiver(s) speak English

Exclusion Criteria:

* Younger than 12 months of age or older than 5 years old
* Suture repair needed for lacerations are greater than 5cm in length
* Known allergy or adverse effect to Midazolam, Dexmedetomidine, Ketamine, or any other sedatives
* Any abnormal vital signs for age, especially heart rate and blood pressure
* History of Cardiac, respiratory, renal, or liver disease
* Known electrolyte abnormalities
* Any ocular trauma, nasal injury, nasal deformity, significant nasal congestion, abnormalities in the nasal or oral mucosa, facial deformity, or facial injury
* Home medications include beta blockers or any other blood pressure lowering agents Classified American Society of Anesthesiologists III and above
* Known or anticipated difficult airway
* Abnormal neurological exam
* Parent(s)/Caregiver(s) do not speak English

Where this trial is running

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Laceration of SkinAnxietyDischarge Time
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.