[Dexmedetomidine]

Abstract

Dexmedetomidine, a potent and highly selective alpha2-agonist, provides a unique "conscious sedation" (patients appear to be asleep, but are readily roused), analgesia, without respiratory depression. In order to provide a comfortable sedation to the ICU patients, careful evaluation of sedation and analgesia level, and the consistent treatment by medical teams are necessary. We may expect the usefulness of dexmedetomidine in the settings other than the ICU, from its pharmacological properties. Clinical applications of dexmedetomidine for several procedures such as awake craniotomy, fiberoptic tracheal intubation, or MRI examination have been reported, suggesting its usefulness and problems. The major problem with dexmedetomidine is its hemodynamic effects. Because this drug often causes hypotension, hypertension and bradycardia, it should be used under the control by skilled medical teams.