Dexmedetomidine Hcl

Generic Name: dexmedetomidine hcl

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Dexmedetomidine Hcl

11 DESCRIPTION Dexmedetomidine Injection, USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution suitable for intravenous infusion following dilution. Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride is the S-enantiomer of medetomidine and is chemically described as 4-[( S )-a,2,3-trimethylbenzyl]imidazole monohydrochloride.

Overview

11 DESCRIPTION Dexmedetomidine Injection, USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution suitable for intravenous infusion following dilution. Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride is the S-enantiomer of medetomidine and is chemically described as 4-[( S )-a,2,3-trimethylbenzyl]imidazole monohydrochloride.

Uses

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Dexmedetomidine injection alpha 2 -adrenergic agonist indicated for: Sedation of initially intubated and mechanically ventilated patients during treatment in an intensive care setting. Administer dexmedetomidine injection by continuous infusion not to exceed 24 hours. ( 1.1 ) Sedation of non-intubated patients prior to and/or during surgical and other procedures. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Intensive Care Unit Sedation Dexmedetomidine injection is indicated for sedation of initially intubated and mechanically ventilated patients during treatment in an intensive care setting. Dexmedetomidine injection should be administered by continuous infusion not to exceed 24 hours.

Dosage

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Individualize and titrate dexmedetomidine injection dosing to desired clinical effect. ( 2.1 ) Administer dexmedetomidine injection using a controlled infusion device. ( 2.1 ) Dilute the 200 mcg/2mL (100 mcg/mL) vial contents in 0.9% sodium chloride solution to achieve required concentration (4 mcg/mL) prior to administration. ( 2.4 ) For Adult Intensive Care Unit Sedation: Generally initiate at one mcg/kg over 10 minutes, followed by a maintenance infusion of 0.2 to 0.7 mcg/kg /hour. (2.2 ) For Adult Procedural Sedation: Generally initiate at one mcg/kg over 10 minutes , followed by a maintenance infusion initiated at 0.6 mcg/kg/ hour and titrated to achieve desired clinical effect with doses ranging from 0.2 to 1 mcg/kg/ hour .

Side Effects

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Hypotension, bradycardia and sinus arrest [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] Transient hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] The most common adverse reactions (incidence >2%) are hypotension, bradycardia, and dry mouth. (6.1 ) Adverse reactions associated with infusions > 24 hours in duration include ARDS, respiratory failure, and agitation. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. at 1-877-845-0689, or the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .

Interactions

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Anesthetics, Sedatives, Hypnotics, Opioids: Enhancement of pharmacodynamic effects. Reduction in dosage of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride or the concomitant medication may be required. (7.1) 7.1 Anesthetics, Sedatives, Hypnotics, Opioids Co-administration of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride with anesthetics, sedatives, hypnotics, and opioids is likely to lead to an enhancement of effects. Specific studies have confirmed these effects with sevoflurane, isoflurane, propofol, alfentanil, and midazolam. No pharmacokinetic interactions between dexmedetomidine hydrochloride and isoflurane, propofol, alfentanil and midazolam have been demonstrated.

Warnings

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Monitoring: Continuously monitor patients while receiving dexmedetomidine HCl. (5.1) Bradycardia and Sinus Arrest: Have occurred in young healthy volunteers with high vagal tone or with different routes of administration, e.g., rapid intravenous or bolus administration. (5.2) Hypotension and Bradycardia: May necessitate medical intervention. May be more pronounced in patients with hypovolemia, diabetes mellitus, or chronic hypertension, and in the elderly. Use with caution in patients with advanced heart block or severe ventricular dysfunction. (5.2) Co-administration with Other Vasodilators or Negative Chronotropic Agents: Use with caution due to additive pharmacodynamic effects. (5.2) Transient Hypertension: Observed primarily during the loading dose. 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None None. (4)

Pregnancy

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published randomized controlled trials and case reports over several decades of use with intravenously administered dexmedetomidine during pregnancy have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage; however, the reported exposures occurred after the first trimester. Most of the available data are based on studies with exposures that occurred at the time of caesarean section delivery, and these studies have not identified an adverse effect on maternal outcomes or infant Apgar scores.

Storage

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Dexmedetomidine Injection, USP is clear and colorless and is available as follows: NDC 0143-9532-25 - 200 mcg/2 mL (100 mcg/mL) in 2 mL clear glass vial, carton of 25. The strength is based on the dexmedetomidine base. Vials are intended for single-dose only. Discard unused portion. Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dexmedetomidine Hcl used for?

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Dexmedetomidine injection alpha 2 -adrenergic agonist indicated for: Sedation of initially intubated and mechanically ventilated patients during treatment in an intensive care setting. Administer dexmedetomidine injection by continuous infusion not to exceed 24 hours. ( 1.1 ) Sedation of non-intubated patients prior to and/or during surgical and other procedures. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Intensive Care Unit Sedation Dexmedetomidine injection is indicated for sedation of initially intubated and mechanically ventilated patients during treatment in an intensive care setting. Dexmedetomidine injection should be administered by continuous infusion not to exceed 24 hours.

What are the side effects of Dexmedetomidine Hcl?

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Hypotension, bradycardia and sinus arrest [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] Transient hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] The most common adverse reactions (incidence >2%) are hypotension, bradycardia, and dry mouth. (6.1 ) Adverse reactions associated with infusions > 24 hours in duration include ARDS, respiratory failure, and agitation. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. at 1-877-845-0689, or the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .

Can I take Dexmedetomidine Hcl during pregnancy?

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published randomized controlled trials and case reports over several decades of use with intravenously administered dexmedetomidine during pregnancy have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage; however, the reported exposures occurred after the first trimester. Most of the available data are based on studies with exposures that occurred at the time of caesarean section delivery, and these studies have not identified an adverse effect on maternal outcomes or infant Apgar scores.

What are the important warnings for Dexmedetomidine Hcl?

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Monitoring: Continuously monitor patients while receiving dexmedetomidine HCl. (5.1) Bradycardia and Sinus Arrest: Have occurred in young healthy volunteers with high vagal tone or with different routes of administration, e.g., rapid intravenous or bolus administration. (5.2) Hypotension and Bradycardia: May necessitate medical intervention. May be more pronounced in patients with hypovolemia, diabetes mellitus, or chronic hypertension, and in the elderly. Use with caution in patients with advanced heart block or severe ventricular dysfunction. (5.2) Co-administration with Other Vasodilators or Negative Chronotropic Agents: Use with caution due to additive pharmacodynamic effects. (5.2) Transient Hypertension: Observed primarily during the loading dose. 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None None. (4)

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.