Dexmedetomidine
Also known as: Dexdomitor, Precedex
* **Professional Use Only:** This drug should be administered and monitored by veterinary professionals only. * **Post-Sedation Care:** Keep your pet in a quiet, warm, and comfortable environment after they return home. They may remain slightly groggy. * **Risks:** Be aware of potential adverse effects, particularly if your dog is older or has pre-existing heart, liver, or kidney conditions. * **Diet:** Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding fasting before the procedure and when to resume feeding afterward.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Sedation and analgesia
- Sedation and analgesia
- Preanesthetic
- Premed prior to propofol or face mask induction (geriatric/renal/liver dysfunction)
- Slightly heavier sedation for radiographic procedures (ASA II or III)
- Minor surgery, Penn hip or OFA-types of radiographic procedures
- Surgical plane of anesthesia for OHE, castration, or abdominal surgery
- Immobilizing extremely fractious dogs and wolf-hybrid dogs
- Post-operative pain management in critically ill dogs
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Bradycardia (profound)
- Occasional AV blocks
- Decreased respiration / Apnea
- Hypothermia
- Urination
- Vomiting
- Hyperglycemia
- Pain on injection (IM)
- Prolonged sedation
- Paradoxical excitation
- Hypersensitivity
- Pulmonary edema
- Death from circulatory failure (rare)
- Muscle tremors
Cautions & contraindications
- Cardiovascular disease
- Respiratory disorders
- Liver or kidney diseases
- Shock or severe debilitation
- Stress due to extreme heat, cold, or fatigue
- Puppies < 16 weeks (US label) or < 6 months (UK label)
- Kittens < 12 weeks (US label) or < 5 months (UK label)
- Hypersensitivity to the active substance
- > **Cardiovascular Warning:** Due to pronounced cardiovascular effects (bradycardia, vasoconstriction), only clinically healthy dogs and cats should be treated. * **Seizure Disorders:** Use with caution in animals with or prone to developing seizures; may lower the seizure threshold. * **Ocular Care:** Blinking may be impaired and tear production reduced; **eye lubricants** should be applied during sedation. * **Pregnancy/Nursing:** Not recommended for use in pregnant or breeding animals unless benefits clearly outweigh risks (FDA Category C). Safe use during nursing is not established.
Drug interactions
- Anesthetics, Opiates, Sedative/Hypnotics: Effects may be additive; dosage reduction of one or both agents may be required. General anesthetic requirements may be reduced between 30-60%.
- Atropine, Glycopyrrolate: Can significantly increase arterial blood pressure and heart rate; use together is not recommended in dogs due to increased cardiac workload.
- Epinephrine: Possesses alpha agonist effects; do not use to treat cardiac effects caused by dexmedetomidine.
- Yohimbine: May reverse the effects, but atipamezole is preferred for clinical use.
Frequently asked questions
What is Dexmedetomidine used for in pets?
* **Professional Use Only:** This drug should be administered and monitored by veterinary professionals only. * **Post-Sedation Care:** Keep your pet in a quiet, warm, and comfortable environment after they return home. They may remain slightly groggy. * **Risks:** Be aware of potential adverse effects, particularly if your dog is older or has pre-existing heart, liver, or kidney conditions. * **Diet:** Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding fasting before the procedure and when to resume feeding afterward.
Is Dexmedetomidine safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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