Health Library

Dexmedetomidine (By injection)

Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride (dex-me-de-TOE-mi-deen hye-droe-KLOR-ide)

Used before or during surgery or other medical procedures to make you fall asleep.

Brand Name(s):

Precedex, PremierPro Rx dexmedeTOMIDine HCl, dexmedeTOMIDine HCl Novaplus

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
• You will receive this medicine in a hospital or surgery center. A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, heart disease, heart rhythm problems, high or low blood pressure, or diabetes.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Hypotension (low blood pressure)
  • Bradycardia (slow heartbeat)
  • Hyperthermia (high body temperature)
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Chest pain that may spread, trouble breathing, nausea, unusual sweating
• Confusion, weakness, trouble breathing, numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or lips
• Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat
• Fever
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation
• Dry mouth, nervousness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024