dexmedetomidine
Pronunciation: dex-me-de-TOM-i-deen
A highly selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist providing sedation, analgesia, and sympatholysis without respiratory depression.
Full Definition
Dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 agonist that offers unique properties for cardiac anesthesia including anxiolysis, sedation, and analgesia while preserving respiratory drive. It provides hemodynamic stability by reducing sympathetic tone and has cardioprotective effects. In cardiac surgery, it is often used as an adjunct for postoperative sedation, fast-track extubation protocols, and management of emergence delirium. The drug can cause bradycardia and hypotension, requiring careful titration in patients with compromised cardiac function.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as 'dex' in clinical practice but should be written out in formal documentation.
In Context
- "Dexmedetomidine infusion was started postoperatively to facilitate early extubation." — Anesthesia care plan
- "The patient received dexmedetomidine for sedation while maintaining spontaneous ventilation." — ICU progress note