Prolonged Infusion of Dexmedetomidine in Critically-ill Children.

ABSTRACT

Objective: To describe main indications, doses, length of infusion and side effects related to dexmedetomidine infusion. Methods: Observational and retrospective study evaluating dexmedetomidine use in pediatric intensive care unit. Results: 77 children received dexmedetomidine infusion longer than 6 hours for mechanical ventilation weaning (32.5%), post- neurosurgery and post-upper airway surgery (24.7%), non-invasive ventilation (13%), refractory tachycardia (6.5%) and other causes (23.3%). After 6 hours of infusion, significant decrease in mean arterial pressure and heart rate was observed in all groups. Six children (8%) required withdrawal of drug because of possible side effects hypotension, bradycardia and somnolence. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine may be used as sedative in critically ill children without much side effects.