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Intra-nasal Dexmedetomidine
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 Procedural sedation and anxiolysis via intranasal administration, Pediatric preoperative anxiety.
At a glance
| Generic name | Intra-nasal Dexmedetomidine |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Precedex |
| Sponsor | University of Massachusetts, Worcester |
| 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 to alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the locus coeruleus and other brain regions, reducing norepinephrine release and producing dose-dependent sedation and analgesia. The intranasal formulation allows non-invasive delivery for rapid onset of action. This mechanism provides sedation without respiratory depression, making it suitable for procedural sedation and anxiety management.
Approved indications
- Procedural sedation and anxiolysis via intranasal administration
- Pediatric preoperative anxiety
Common side effects
- Sedation
- Hypotension
- Bradycardia
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
Key clinical trials
- Study of the Efficacy of Moderate Sedation With Intra-NAsal Dexmedetomidine Monitored by EEG MOnitoring (NA)
- Pediatric Delirium (PHASE4)
- Propofol vs. Nasal Dexmedetomidine in Pediatric Agitation and Delirium (PHASE4)
- Pre-operative Intra-nasal Dexmedetomidine or Insulin for Prevention of Early Post-operative Cognitive Dysfunction in Patients Undergoing Elective Coronary Artery Bypass Graft. (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Intranasal Dexmedetomidine Sedation During Intra-articular Joint Injections in Pediatric Population (PHASE4)
- Pharmacokinetic Study of Dexmedetomidine After Intra-Nasal and Buccal Dosing in Children (PHASE1)
- Intra-nasal Dexmedetomidine for Children Undergoing MRI Imaging (PHASE4)
- Pharmacokinetic Study of Dexmedetomidine After Intra-nasal Dosing in Children (PHASE1)
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:
- Intra-nasal Dexmedetomidine CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Intra-nasal Dexmedetomidine updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- University of Massachusetts, Worcester portfolio CI