By: Jamie L., Beasley, Edgardo, William Howard, Adrianne R., Marjorie M.
To describe the effects of dexmedetomidine on sedation, pain, respiratory status, and hemodynamics in neonates. A retrospective study of 206 infants in a level IV NICU (2016–2021) receiving continuous dexmedetomidine infusion. Pain/sedation scores, BP, vasopressor and inotrope score (VIS), and concomitant sedatives/analgesics (CSA) were recorded before and every 3–4 h for 24 h. Median PMA:32 weeks. Hypotension occurred in 26%, primarily in infants <32weeks PMA, correlating with higher VIS and CSA. CSA use significantly predicted vasopressors/inotrope use. Dexmedetomidine, with CSA, increases cardiovascular instability in preterm infants who have unique myocardial structure and function and therefore higher vulnerability. None (not applicable).
