Dexmedetomidine: as safe as safe can be

Abstract

Dexmedetomidine (DMET) is an alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist approved for short-term use as a sedative for mechanically ventilated patients. Alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonists exhibit sedative–hypnotic, analgesic, anxiolytic, and sympatholytic effects. The ability of DMET to produce a readily arousable state of moderate–deep sedation and analgesia with a lack of respiratory depression has led to an increased interest in its use. Very little published data exists on the side effects/adverse event profile of the drug, especially with high-dose prolonged infusions. In addition, the ceiling dose is not really known. This article reviews the current literature with regards to multiple organ systems and the effects of DMET.