dexmedetomidine

Dexmedetomidine is a highly selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist used primarily for sedation in intensive care settings and during surgical or other medical procedures. It is administered intravenously for the sedation of intubated and mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU, as well as non-intubated patients before or during surgery. Additionally, it is available as a buccal or sublingual film for the acute treatment of agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Dexmedetomidine works by binding to presynaptic and postsynaptic alpha-2 adrenoceptors in the central nervous system, inhibiting norepinephrine release and reducing sympathetic activity. This results in sedative, analgesic, anxiolytic effects with minimal respiratory depression[1][2][5][6].

Brand names

PrecedexDexdorIgalmi

Other names

dexmedetomidine hydrochloride