The Perioperative Use of Dexmedetomidine in Paediatric Patients

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Dexmedetomidine, an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, has gained significant attention for its sedative, analgesic, and anxiolytic properties in paediatric anaesthesia. This review explores its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, perioperative applications and efficacy, and safety profile in paediatric patients. Findings: Dexmedetomidine has emerged as a highly effective adjunct in paediatric anaesthesia, offering significant advantages across various perioperative settings. It reduces the need for other anaesthetics and opioids, leading to smoother recoveries with lower postoperative pain and agitation. Studies highlight its role in enhancing procedural sedation, improving patient cooperation, and providing superior analgesia in neuraxial and general anaesthesia. Its neuroprotective properties and stable haemodynamic profile make it particularly valuable in the perioperative and critical care settings. Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine has shown a favourable safety and efficacy profile in paediatric anaesthesia when doses are carefully titrated within the ranges recommended in the literature. While its use remains off-label in paediatric populations, increasing clinical experience and evidence support its integration into perioperative protocols.

Keywords: analgesia; dexmedetomidine; paediatric anaesthesia; sedation.