Dexmedetomidine is a medication used for sedation in patients who are intubated or mechanically ventilated. Intubation and mechanical ventilation are artificial methods to help you breath if you are unable to do so by yourself. According to the National Library of Medicine, dexmedetomidine is given as an intravenous infusion for less than 24 hours.
Common Side Effects
According to the National Library of Medicine, dexmedetomidine's common side effects include bradycardia (a slow heartbeat), dry mouth and hypotension (low blood pressure). Lightheadedness and fainting are initial manifestations of hypotension and bradycardia because inadequate amounts of blood are reaching your brain. Your doctor can give you intravenous fluids and medications to increase your blood pressure and heart rate. Call your physician if dexmedetomidine causes these side effects.
Serious Side Effects
Dexmedetomadine can lead to such potentially life-threatening side effects as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, a myocardial infarction (a heart attack) and cardiac arrest. Your heart contains an intricate electrical condition system that runs from the upper part of your heart to the lower portions of your heart. Atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia refer to electrical conduction disorders that affect the manner in which your heart pumps blood to your body. Prolonged and untreated atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia can lead to cardiac arrest. The National Library of Medicine says that dexmedetomidine can also cause transient hypertension (high blood pressure). Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of these effects.
Additional Concerns
Dexmedetomidine should not be used with diazepam or amphotericin B. The combination can cause the aforementioned side effects. Avoid combining dexmedetomidine with anesthetics, hypnotics or sedatives as the combination increases the potency of these medications.
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