The Effect of Vasopressin and Methylprednisolone on Return of Spontaneous Circulation in Patients with In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiac arrest is often fatal if not treated immediately by cardiopulmonary resuscitation to restore a normal heart rhythm and spontaneous circulation. We aim to evaluate the clinical benefits of vasopressin and methylprednisolone versus placebo for patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest.

Data sources: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central, and Google Scholar from inception to October 17, 2021, by using search terms included "Vasopressin" AND "Methylprednisolone" AND "Cardiac arrest".

Study selection and data extraction: We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared vasopressin and methylprednisolone to placebo. The main outcomes were the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and survival to hospital discharge.

Data synthesis: A total of three RCTs, with a total of 869 patients, were included. The pooled risk ratios (RRs) were calculated along with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Our result showed an increase in ROSC in patients who received vasopressin and methylprednisolone (RR = 1.32; 95% CI = [1.18, 1.47], p < 0.00001) when compared with the placebo group. However, there was no difference between both groups regarding survival to hospital discharge (RR = 1.76; 95% CI = [0.68, 4.56], p= 0.25).

Relevance to patient care and clinical practice: The current guidelines recommend epinephrine for patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest. Our meta-analysis updates clinicians about using vasopressin and methylprednisolone besides epinephrine, providing them with the best available evidence in managing patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest.

Conclusion: Among patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest, administration of vasopressin and methylprednisolone besides epinephrine is associated with increased ROSC compared with placebo and epinephrine. However, high-quality RCTs are necessary before drawing a firm conclusion regarding the efficacy of vasopressin and methylprednisolone for patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest.