Thesis on dexmedetomidine

Dexmedetomidine has potent sedative and analgesic-sparing properties. In therapeutic doses it does not cause respiratory depression, making it attractive for infusion sedation. However, it causes reduced sympathetic outflow, which might cause untoward hemodynamic upset during intraoperative sedation.

Dexmedetomidine is a highly selective α2 -agonist that is associated with less respiratory depression and more cooperative behavior than propofol is. Dexmedetomidine also causes hypnosis, analgesia, sympatholysis, and inhibition of insulin secretion.

Dexmedetomidine (Precedex) is a relatively new α2 -adrenergic agent approved for short-term ICU use. Eight times as potent as its counterpart, clonidine, dexmedetomidine has excellent sympatholytic sedative and analgesic effects.

Dexmedetomidine is primarily metabolized in the liver, so doses should be adjusted for hepatic failure. Dexmedetomidine should be used with caution in patients with preexisting cardiac conduction defects, bradycardia, or hypovolemia. Dexmedetomidine is a multifaceted drug with great promise in the ICU setting.