Drugs
Dexmedetomidine Infusion
Dexmedetomidine is commonly used for monitored anesthesia care (MAC) and other clinical indications. It is available in 200 mcg/2 mL vials and should be diluted to a concentration of 4 mcg/mL by adding 48 mL of compatible diluent.
Dosing and Titration:
- Infusion Rate: 0.3–0.5 mcg/kg/min.
- Initial Bolus: 0.5 mcg/kg administered over 10 minutes at the start of the procedure.
Clinical Precautions: Adjuncts such as fentanyl, remifentanil, or propofol are often required; however, caution is advised as these combinations increase the risk of apnea. Propofol should be administered judiciously in small increments (e.g., 1 mL).