What is dexmedetomidine?
Dexmedetomidine is an active ingredient and generic drug, works as an analgesic and inturn provides a considerable level of sedation inthecentral nervous system, considered an agonist of alpha 2 adrenergic receptors.
The presentation of dexmedetomidine, is commonly in the form of ampoules and solutions of 2 ml, whose administration is oral or also by intravenous injection. Dexmedetomidine doses typically range from 0.07 to 0.0014 ml per day.
Note: A medical study mentions that: “Dexmedetomidine was approved in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in late 1999 for use in humans as a short-course medication for sedation/analgesia in the intensive care unit.” (1)
What is dexmedetomidine for?
Dexmedetomidine serves as a stimulant and Agonist of the adrenergic or alpha 2 receptors of the central nervous system and the locus coeruleus (main source of norepinephrine in the CNS).
In this sense, the protein composition of dexmedetomidine is involved in certain physiological functions , such as muscle spasms, vasoconstriction of the veins and even breathing.
Highlights: Dexmedetomidine is prescribed for Surgical or intensive care (including the operating room) to control blood pressure, sedate muscle tissue, control respiratory muscles, and even stabilize stress responses.
Dexmedetomidine Side Effects
Dexmedetomidine can bring with it a series of adverse effects that, being a drug that is certainly strong for the nervous system , can be uncomfortable for some patients. Therefore, caution should be taken if these symptoms occur:
- Prolonged hypotension (low blood pressure).
- Dyspnea (breathing difficulty) or respiratory depression.
- General weakness.
- Nausea.
- Agitation.
Contraindications of dexmedetomidine
Despite the positive effects that dexmedetomidine brings, its administration is not recommended in certain adult patients at the time of emergency surgery, they may even need a dose reduction. Therefore, caution is needed for the following cases:
- Patients with liver failure.
- Cerebrovascular diseases.
- hypotension
- Hypertension.
- patients
Key Conclusions
- Dexmedetomidine is an Active Ingredient Used to sedate patients during surgical procedures.
- Dexmedetomidine doses are used primarily for Surgical procedures or intensive care .
- Dexmedetomidine may cause muscle and general weakness as a side effect.
- The administration of dexmedetomidine is not recommended in cases of diabetes, hypertension, hypotension and liver failure.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.