Initial experience with dexmedetomidine in paediatric-aged patients.

We present preliminary clinical experience with the use of dexmedetomidine, an alpha2 adrenergic agonist, in children. Dexmedetomidine was administered in three clinical scenarios: (i) to provide sedation during mechanical ventilation; (ii) intraoperatively for controlled hypotension during an orthopaedic surgical procedure; and (iii) to provide sedation during an invasive procedure. Preliminary data from studies in the adult population, its physiological effects and potential applications in paediatric anaesthesia and critical care are discussed.