J Perinatol. 2025 Sep 4. doi: 10.1038/s41372-025-02339-5. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To describe the effects of dexmedetomidine on sedation, pain, respiratory status, and hemodynamics in neonates.
METHODS: 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.
RESULTS: 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.
CONCLUSION: Dexmedetomidine, with CSA, increases cardiovascular instability in preterm infants who have unique myocardial structure and function and therefore higher vulnerability.
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION (IF ANY): None (not applicable).
PMID:40908310 | DOI:10.1038/s41372-025-02339-5
