Using Betamethasone to Reduce Pain and Nausea After Tonsil Surgery

Betamethasone (Betapred®) as Premedication for Reducing Postoperative Vomiting and Pain After Tonsillectomy - a Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Trial

Phase 4 Interventional Umeå University · NCT03783182

This study is testing if giving Betamethasone before tonsil surgery can help adults feel less pain and nausea after the operation.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages12 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUmeå University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Luleå)
Trial IDNCT03783182 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the use of Betamethasone as a premedication to reduce postoperative nausea and pain in adults undergoing elective bilateral tonsillectomy. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Betamethasone compared to existing treatments, focusing on its impact on postoperative outcomes such as nausea, pain levels, and bleeding. Participants will receive Betamethasone along with a glucose solution before their surgery, and their recovery will be monitored for any improvements in symptoms. The trial is particularly relevant as most existing research has focused on dexamethasone, leaving a gap in knowledge regarding Betamethasone's effects in this context.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over the age of 12 who are scheduled for elective bilateral tonsillectomy.

Not a fit: Patients with insulin-dependent diabetes, NSAID or corticosteroid intolerance, pregnancy, gastric ulcers, immunodeficiency, chronic pain treatment, or psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved postoperative care for adults undergoing tonsillectomy, reducing pain and nausea.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on dexamethasone have shown varying success, this specific approach using Betamethasone is relatively novel and less tested in adults.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Signed informed consent Age over 12 years Planned for elective bilateral tonsillectomy

Exclusion Criteria:

* • Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus

  * NSAID or corticosteroid intolerance
  * Pregnancy
  * Gastric ulcer
  * Immunodeficiency
  * Treatment for chronic pain
  * Psychiatric disorders

Where this trial is running

Luleå

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 TonsillectomyPainPONVBleeding
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.