Last reviewed · How we verify

Sufentanil and dexmedetomidine

Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Sufentanil is an opioid agonist that binds mu receptors for analgesia and sedation, while dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that provides sedation and analgesia through central nervous system effects.

Sufentanil is an opioid agonist that binds mu receptors for analgesia and sedation, while dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that provides sedation and analgesia through central nervous system effects. Used for Sedation and analgesia in obstetric and gynecological procedures.

At a glance

Generic nameSufentanil and dexmedetomidine
SponsorObstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University
Drug classOpioid agonist and alpha-2 adrenergic agonist combination
TargetMu opioid receptor and alpha-2 adrenergic receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaAnesthesia and Analgesia
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

This combination pairs sufentanil's potent mu-opioid receptor agonism (providing analgesia and sedation) with dexmedetomidine's selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonism (providing sedation, analgesia, and sympatholytic effects). Together they provide synergistic analgesia and sedation with potentially reduced opioid requirements and improved hemodynamic stability compared to opioids alone.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial 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: