Dexmedetomidine
Dexmedetomidine is a central α2-agonist (α2:α1 activity 1600:1) used for its sedation and analgesic properties.
| Property | Action |
|---|---|
| Class | Imidazole derivative |
| Pharmaceutics | D-stereoisomer of medetomidine (the L-stereoisomer is inactive) |
| Uses | Sedation without respiratory depression |
| Presentation | Clear colourless solution at 10µg.ml-1 |
| Route of Administration | IV only |
| Dosing | 0.2-0.7µg.kg-1.hr-1 |
| Distribution | 95% protein bound |
| Metabolism | Hepatic to inactive metabolites |
| Elimination | Renal of metabolites, t1/2β of 2 hours |
| CVS | Initial transient ↑ SVR and BP due to α1 effects, followed by ↓ MAP, ↓ HR. Rebound ↑ BP when abruptly ceased. |
| CNS | Sedation, anxiolysis at low dose (anxiogenic at high dose), amnesia. ↓ MAC. ↓ SNS outflow. |
References
- Peck TE, Hill SA. Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care. 4th Ed. Cambridge University Press. 2014.
- Smith S, Scarth E, Sasada M. Drugs in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care. 4th Ed. Oxford University Press. 2011.
- Petkov V. Essential Pharmacology For The ANZCA Primary Examination. Vesselin Petkov. 2012.