IV
Refs: [3-5]
|
Loading dose [if needed] over 15 minutes
|
Infusion
|
Maximum dose
|
Preterm < 37 weeks gestation
|
0.2 microgram/kg/dose
|
0.2 microgram/kg/hour
|
1 microgram/kg/hour
|
Term infants ≤ 14 days
|
0.35 microgram/kg/dose
|
0.3 microgram/kg/hour
|
1.2 microgram/kg/hour
|
Term infants > 14 days
|
0.5 microgram/kg/dose
|
0.5 to 0.75 microgram/kg/hour
|
1.5 microgram/kg/hour
|
Incremental increase
Every 30 minutes, either increase the rate by 0.1-0.2 microgram/kg/hour increments to a maximum dose as per dosing table; and/or use a rescue dose of other sedative (midazolam) or analgesic (opioid) agent to achieve the desired effect.
NOT FOR IV RESCUE BOLUS ADMINISTRATION.
Incremental decrease
Infusion should usually be weaned rather than discontinued abruptly, especially if used for greater than 72 hours.
Either:
Decrease the dose by 0.1 microgram/kg/hour every 30 minutes, OR
Decrease the infusion rate by 0.2 microgram/kg/hour every 8 hours.
It is not necessary to discontinue dexmedetomidine prior to extubation especially in postoperative patients.
| 