Dexmedetomidine: Pharmacology and clinical application

Abstract

Background and Objectives - Dexmedetomidine is the newest α2-adrenergic agonist for clinical application. It has a fast onset, is metabolized by the liver and mostly excreted by the urine. This review aimed at presenting pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles of dexmedetomidine and its clinical applications. Contents - Dexmedetomidine pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles are presented and compared to other α2-adrenergic agonist drugs, the prototype of which is clonidine. Cardiac, vascular, neurological and gynecologic procedure outcomes are commented. Conclusions - Dexmedetomidine is an innovative drug for sedation and analgesia. Its major qualities are fast onset and titration, allowing for changes in sedation and analgesia depth. In addition, it has a synergism with commonly used anesthetic drugs, with a low incidence of side effects and minor respiratory depression.