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dexmedetomidine (IN)
Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that produces sedation, analgesia, and anxiolysis by activating presynaptic and postsynaptic alpha-2 receptors in the central nervous system.
Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that produces sedation, analgesia, and anxiolysis by activating presynaptic and postsynaptic alpha-2 receptors in the central nervous system. Used for Sedation of intubated and mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care units, Sedation and analgesia for procedural sedation and anesthesia, Perioperative anxiolysis and analgesia.
At a glance
| Generic name | dexmedetomidine (IN) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova |
| Drug class | Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist |
| Target | Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Anesthesia and Critical Care |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
By binding to alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, dexmedetomidine reduces norepinephrine release and enhances inhibitory neurotransmission, resulting in sedation without respiratory depression. It also provides analgesic and anxiolytic effects through spinal and supraspinal mechanisms. The drug maintains airway reflexes better than many other sedatives, making it suitable for procedural and ICU sedation.
Approved indications
- Sedation of intubated and mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care units
- Sedation and analgesia for procedural sedation and anesthesia
- Perioperative anxiolysis and analgesia
Common side effects
- Hypotension
- Bradycardia
- Hypertension (transient, initial)
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Rebound hypertension on withdrawal
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)
- The Relationship Between Opioid-Free Anesthesia and Postoperative Agitation-Delirium and Quality of Recovery in Pediatric Ear, Nose, and Throat Cases Monitored With Perioperative Bispectral Index
- Continuous Epidural With Dexmedetomidine Adjuvant in Gynecologic Laparotomy (PHASE4)
- Suprainguinal Fascia Iliaca Block With vs Without Dexmedetomidine (PHASE4)
- Dexmedotomidine for Acute Pain Control in Patients With Multiple Rib FracturesRandomized Controlled Trial (PHASE4)
- Dexmedetomidine for Invasive Ventilation In the NEOnate (PHASE2, PHASE3)
- Opioid Free and Opioid Based Anesthesia in Elective Lumbar Spine Surgery
- Awareness Neuraxial Versus General Anesthesia in Frail Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic or Robotic Abdominopelvic Surgery. (NA)
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 (IN) CI brief — competitive landscape report
- dexmedetomidine (IN) updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova portfolio CI