Review of drug interactions between dexmedetomidine and other anesthetic agent

Background Dexmedetomidine (Dex) is an α2 adrenergic receptor agonist widely used clinically, exhibiting effects such as sedation, analgesia, and sympatholytic. Meanwhile, Dex causes no suppression on breathing and no disturbance on electroencephalograph. Many researches have shown that Dex interacts with other anesthetic agents. Objective This article aims to review both domestic and oversea studies on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the interactions between Dex and other anesthetic agents as to guide clinical applications of Dex. Content The review discusses the clinical effects of the interaction of Dex and other anesthetic agents, such as reduction in dosage of both agents, reduction in occurrence of adverse effects of both agents, and the stabilization of hemodynamics. The article then reviews the related mechanisms of each effect. Trend As more studies on Dex are carried out, the future of Dex is looking bright. Key words: Dexmedetomidine; Drug interaction; Sedation; Analgesia