Dexmedetomidine and neuroprotection

Dexmedetomidine is an α-2 adrenoreceptor agonist which has displayed neuroprotective properties in a variety of in vitro and in vivo laboratory studies; however, the mechanism of neuroprotection remains unclear. Modulation of pathways leading to excitatory cell death and apoptosis are likely to be involved, although there is evidence for and against these theories. Randomized controlled clinical trials in humans are needed to ascertain the efficacy of dexmedetomidine as a neuroprotectant in humans before its clinical use as a neuroprotectant can be recommended.