About dexmedetomidine
Selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist
Used for
- Sedation of adults in intensive care, usually while patients remain arousable.
- Procedural sedation in adults and, in some settings, children.
Usual adult dose
Given by continuous intravenous infusion, adjusted to effect. Typical maintenance: 0.2–1.4 micrograms/kg/hour; loading doses depend on use and may be omitted.
Usual dose in children
Procedural sedation: specialist-directed infusion, commonly 0.2–1 microgram/kg/hour; not generally established for intensive-care sedation in children.
Common side effects
- Slow heart rate and low blood pressure
- High blood pressure, especially with a loading dose
- Nausea, dry mouth, or agitation
- Breathing pauses or reduced breathing
Important warnings
- Requires continuous monitoring by trained staff in a clinical setting.
- Can cause severe slow heart rate, low blood pressure, or cardiac arrest.
- Use caution with heart disease, low blood volume, or medicines that slow heart rate.
- Stopping prolonged infusions suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms, including high blood pressure and agitation.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy information is limited; use only when clearly needed and benefits outweigh potential risks.
Breastfeeding
It is not known whether dexmedetomidine passes into human milk; clinical advice is needed before breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Additive effects with opioids, sedatives, anesthetics, or alcohol may increase sedation and breathing problems.
- Medicines that slow heart rate or lower blood pressure may intensify these effects.
- Anesthetic and other sedative doses may need adjustment during treatment.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.