Neuraxial Dexmedetomidine-Help or Hype? - Abstract
Neuraxial dexmedetomidine, high selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist has gained attention as adjuvant in neuraxial anesthesia. Dexmedetomidine enhances sensory and motor block quality, prolongs postoperative analgesia, and offers stable hemodynamic profiles with fewer side effects like respiratory depression or pruritus compared to opioids. It is associated with dose-dependent risks: bradycardia and hypotension. Although promising, dexmedetomidine’s widespread adoption in neuraxial anesthesia is tempered by the need for robust data for long-term safety and optimal dosing.