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Intranasal dexmedetomidine-esketamine

Peking University First Hospital · FDA-approved active Small molecule

This combination drug acts as an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist (dexmedetomidine) and an NMDA receptor antagonist (esketamine) delivered intranasally to produce rapid sedation and analgesia.

This combination drug acts as an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist (dexmedetomidine) and an NMDA receptor antagonist (esketamine) delivered intranasally to produce rapid sedation and analgesia. Used for Procedural sedation and analgesia, Acute pain management.

At a glance

Generic nameIntranasal dexmedetomidine-esketamine
SponsorPeking University First Hospital
Drug classAlpha-2 adrenergic agonist / NMDA receptor antagonist combination
TargetAlpha-2 adrenergic receptors; NMDA receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaAnesthesia / Sedation / Acute Pain Management
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Dexmedetomidine selectively binds alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the central nervous system to produce sedation, analgesia, and anxiolysis. Esketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist that provides rapid-onset dissociative anesthesia and analgesia. The intranasal formulation allows non-invasive delivery with faster onset than oral routes.

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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