Analgesic Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Epidural Ropivacaine Combined with Equipotent Alfentanil or Sufentanil for Labor Analgesia: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Single-Blind Trial

Key Points

• The aim is to assess the effectiveness and side effects of combining epidural ropivacaine with alfentanil or sufentanil during labor.
• Conducted as a multicenter randomized controlled trial.
• Participants received either alfentanil or sufentanil alongside ropivacaine.
• Single-blind design ensured participant awareness of the treatment.
• Significant differences found in analgesic efficacy between the combinations.
• Reported adverse effects varied between the two medication groups.
• Findings may influence practices in managing labor pain.