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Butorphanol and dexmedetomindine

The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Butorphanol acts as a mixed opioid agonist-antagonist while dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, together providing analgesia, sedation, and anxiolysis.

Butorphanol acts as a mixed opioid agonist-antagonist while dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, together providing analgesia, sedation, and anxiolysis. Used for Perioperative sedation and analgesia, Premedication for anesthesia.

At a glance

Generic nameButorphanol and dexmedetomindine
SponsorThe Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University
Drug classOpioid agonist-antagonist combined with alpha-2 adrenergic agonist
TargetOpioid receptors (kappa, sigma, mu) and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaAnesthesia and Perioperative Medicine
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Butorphanol binds to opioid receptors (primarily kappa and sigma agonist, mu antagonist/partial agonist) to provide pain relief. Dexmedetomidine selectively binds alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the central nervous system to produce sedation, anxiolysis, and analgesia. The combination is used for perioperative sedation and analgesia, with complementary mechanisms reducing the required dose of each agent.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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