α2-Adrenoceptor Agonists
α2-Adrenoceptor agonists have
received attention for their ability to produce sedation and analgesia. Their
sedative properties may be related to action on 2-re-ceptors in the
locus ceruleus, and analgesia likely occurs via α 2-receptors in the spinal cord and locus
ceruleus. Agents used when sedation is desirable include oral clonidine (Catapres) and IV dexmedetomidine (Prece-dex), which has recently been
approved in the United States for
sedation in intensive care units. A solution of clonidine (Duraclon) is also available to provide or as a supplement for
epidural analgesia. Hypnosis sufficient for surgical anesthesia is not adequate
when the α2-adrenoceptor agonists are used alone, and cardiovascu-lar side
effects, including bradycardia and hypotension, limit the doses that can be
used. As adjunctive drugs they significantly reduce the dose requirement for
opi-oids and anesthetics during surgery.
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