Dexmeto Mechanism of Action

Pharmacology: Dexmedetomidine is a relatively selective alpha-adrenoceptor agonist with sedative properties. Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation remained within normal limits and there was no evidence of respiratory depression when Dexmedetomidine was administered by IV infusion at doses within the recommended dose range (0.2 - 0.7 mcg/kg/hr).
Gender: There was no observed difference in dexmedetomidine pharmacokinetics due to gender.
Geriatrics: The pharmacokinetic profile of dexmedetomidine was not altered by age. There were no differences in the pharmacokinetics of dexmedetomidine in young (18-40 years), middle aged (41-65 years) and elderly (>65 years) subjects.
Renal Impairment: Since the majority of metabolites are excreted in the urine, it is possible that the metabolites may accumulate upon long-term infusions in patients with impaired renal function (see Precautions, Dosage & Administration).
Hepatic Impairment: In subjects with varying degrees of hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A, B, or C), clearance values for dexmedetomidine were lower than in healthy subjects.
Although dexmedetomidine is dosed to effect, it may be necessary to consider dose reduction in patients with hepatic impairment (see Hepatic Impairment under Precautions and Dosage & Administration).