Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride

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Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride Injection is a central alpha-2 adrenergic agonist indicated for sedation of non-intubated patients prior to and/or during surgical and other procedures

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Dexmedetomidine is a specific and selective alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist. By binding to the presynaptic alpha-2 adrenoceptors, it inhibits the release if norepinephrine, therefore, terminate the propagation of pain signals. Activation of the postsynaptic alpha-2 adrenoceptors inhibits the sympathetic activity decreases blood pressure and heart rate.

Anesthetics, sedatives/hypnotics, opioids: Can potentiate sedating effects. Consider reducing dosage of dexmedetomidine HCl or co-administered drug.

The most common adverse reactions (incidence greater than 10%) were hypotension, respiratory depression, and bradycardia.

Pregnancy: There are no studies conducted with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in pregnant women to inform any drug-associated risks.Lactation: There is no information regarding the presence of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in human milk, the effects of the drug on the breastfed infant, or the effects of the drug on milk production.

Bradycardia and Sinus Arrest: Consider decreasing or stopping dexmedetomidine HCl infusion; decreasing or stopping other medications that depress sinus node function; administering anticholinergic agents (e.g., glycopyrrolate, atropine); and/or administering pressor agents.  Hypotension: Consider decreasing or stopping dexmedetomidine HCl infusion; increasing rate of intravenous fluid administration; elevating lower extremities, and/or administering pressor agents.Transient Hypertension: Observed primarily during administration of loading dose. Consider reducing loading infusion rate.Arousability: Patients can become aroused/alert with stimulation; this alone should not be considered as lack of efficacy.Prolonged exposure to dexmedetomidine beyond 24 hours may be associated with tolerance and tachyphylaxis and a dose-related increase in adverse events.

Geriatric patients (age greater than 65 years): Recommended loading infusion dosage for initiation of procedural sedation is 0.5 mcg/kg over 10 minutes. Consider dosage reduction for maintenanceHepatic impairment: Consider dosage reduction for initiation and maintenance of procedural sedation.