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dexmedetomidine 1 µg/kg IV
Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that produces sedation, analgesia, and anxiolysis by activating alpha-2 receptors in the central nervous system.
Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that produces sedation, analgesia, and anxiolysis by activating alpha-2 receptors in the central nervous system. Used for Sedation of intubated and mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care settings, Procedural sedation and analgesia, Perioperative anxiolysis and analgesia.
At a glance
| Generic name | dexmedetomidine 1 µg/kg IV |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | American University of Beirut Medical Center |
| Drug class | Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist |
| Target | Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Anesthesia/Sedation |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Dexmedetomidine binds with high selectivity to alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, particularly in the locus coeruleus and other brainstem regions, leading to decreased norepinephrine release and resulting in sedation and analgesia. Unlike general anesthetics, it preserves airway reflexes and allows patients to be aroused, making it useful for procedural sedation and ICU sedation. The drug also produces analgesic effects through spinal and supraspinal mechanisms.
Approved indications
- Sedation of intubated and mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care settings
- Procedural sedation and analgesia
- Perioperative anxiolysis and analgesia
Common side effects
- Hypotension
- Bradycardia
- Hypertension (initial)
- Dry mouth
- Rebound hypertension on discontinuation
Key clinical trials
- Effect of Lidocaine Infusion Versus Dexmedemidine Infusion on the Neurocognitive Function of Elderly Patients Undergoing Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography(ERCP): a Randomized, Controlled Trial. (NA)
- Safety and Efficacy of Dexmedetomidate vs. Midazolam for Procedural Sedation During Medical Thoracoscopy (PHASE3)
- Comparison of Anesthetic Techniques for Early Recovery After Ankle Arthroscopy (NA)
- Intrathecal Morphine for Recovery and Outcomes After VATS (NA)
- DEXDES Trial: Dexmedetomidine-Desflurane Combination in Laparoscopic Colectomy (NA)
- Effect of Opioid-Free Anesthesia (OFA) on Postoperative Pain and Perioperative Nausea and Vomiting in Elective Laparoscopic . (NA)
- Effectiveness of Dexmedetomidine Versus Sufentanil on Cerebral Oxygen Saturation in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury (NA)
- Effect of Lidocaine-Dexmedetomidine on Pain, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress After Bariatric Surgery. (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- dexmedetomidine 1 µg/kg IV CI brief — competitive landscape report
- dexmedetomidine 1 µg/kg IV updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- American University of Beirut Medical Center portfolio CI