Dexdor: a new hospital-only sedative

Dexdor (dexmedetomidine) is licensed for adult patients in intensive care who require sedation not deeper than arousal in response to verbal stimulation (corresponding to Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS) 0 to -3).

Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-₂ receptor agonist. It exerts its sedative effect through decreased firing of the locus coeruleus, the predominant noradrenergic nucleus in the brainstem. Dexmedetomidine has minimal respiratory depressive effects.

Dexdor must be given by intravenous infusion using a controlled infusion device.

View Dexdor drug record

Further information: Orion