Precedex
Precedex (dexmedetomidine hydrochloride) is a relatively selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist. It provides sedative, anxiolytic, and some analgesic properties without causing significant respiratory depression, making it highly useful in intensive care and procedural settings.
Dosage by Body Weight
Must be administered via a controlled infusion device. Typically initiated with a loading infusion followed by a continuous maintenance infusion. Dosing must be individualized and titrated to the desired clinical effect. ICU sedation: Maintenance of 0.2 to 0.7 mcg/kg/hr. Procedural sedation: Maintenance of 0.2 to 1 mcg/kg/hr.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 0.1 to 1.0 mcg/kg/hour
- Frequency
- Continuous IV infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Not routinely recommended in neonates unless under strict specialist supervision. Clearances are lower in this age group.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 1.0 to 10.5 mcg/hour (0.2 to 1.5 mcg/kg/hour)
- Frequency
- Continuous IV infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Titrate dose frequently to achieve desired level of sedation. Monitor heart rate and blood pressure closely.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 1.6 to 15.0 mcg/hour (0.2 to 1.5 mcg/kg/hour)
- Frequency
- Continuous IV infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Assess depth of sedation regularly. Avoid rapid bolus doses to prevent transient hypertension.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 2.2 to 22.5 mcg/hour (0.2 to 1.5 mcg/kg/hour)
- Frequency
- Continuous IV infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Infusion rates should be adjusted based on individual patient response and tolerance.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 3.2 to 30.0 mcg/hour (0.2 to 1.5 mcg/kg/hour)
- Frequency
- Continuous IV infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure adequate hydration and monitor for bradycardia and hypotension during therapy.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 0.1 to 1.0 mcg/kg/hour | Continuous IV infusion | Not routinely recommended in neonates unless under strict specialist supervision. Clearances are lower in this age group. |
| 5-7 kg | 1.0 to 10.5 mcg/hour (0.2 to 1.5 mcg/kg/hour) | Continuous IV infusion | Titrate dose frequently to achieve desired level of sedation. Monitor heart rate and blood pressure closely. |
| 8-10 kg | 1.6 to 15.0 mcg/hour (0.2 to 1.5 mcg/kg/hour) | Continuous IV infusion | Assess depth of sedation regularly. Avoid rapid bolus doses to prevent transient hypertension. |
| 11-15 kg | 2.2 to 22.5 mcg/hour (0.2 to 1.5 mcg/kg/hour) | Continuous IV infusion | Infusion rates should be adjusted based on individual patient response and tolerance. |
| 16-20 kg | 3.2 to 30.0 mcg/hour (0.2 to 1.5 mcg/kg/hour) | Continuous IV infusion | Ensure adequate hydration and monitor for bradycardia and hypotension during therapy. |
Formulation
Purpose
Sedation of initially intubated and mechanically ventilated patients in an intensive care setting, and sedation of non-intubated patients prior to and/or during surgical and other procedures.
Generic Name
Dexmedetomidine hydrochlorideScheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.