A meta-analysis of the association between vasopressor use and intensive care unit-acquired weakness.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to clarify the uncertain association between vasopressor administration and the development of intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICUAW) in critically ill adult patients.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to October 10, 2023. Titles and abstracts were independently screened by two authors, who then reviewed full texts and extracted relevant data from the studies that met the inclusion criteria. This review included prospective and retrospective cohort studies that explored the relationship between vasopressor use and ICUAW utilizing univariate or multivariate analysis in adult ICU patients.

RESULTS

A total of 15 studies were included in our review, collectively indicating a statistically significant association between the use of vasopressors and the occurrence of ICUAW (odds ratio [OR], 3.43; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 1.95-6.04), including studies utilizing multivariate analysis (OR, 3.43; 95% CI, 1.76-6.70). Specifically, the use of noradrenaline was significantly associated with ICUAW (OR, 4.42; 95% CI, 1.69-11.56). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses further underscored the significant relationship between vasopressor use and ICUAW, particularly in studies focusing on patients with clinical weakness, varying study designs, different sample sizes, and relatively low risk of bias. However, this association was not observed in studies limited to patients with abnormal electrophysiology.

CONCLUSIONS

Our review underscores a significant link between the use of vasopressors and the development of ICUAW in critically ill adult patients. This finding helps better identify patients at higher risk of ICUAW and suggests considering targeted therapies to mitigate this risk.