The role of α2-agonists in neurosurgery

Recently, the actions of these agents on the α2-adrenoreceptor and the imidazoline receptor have been more accurately identified, helping to explain the differences between the actions of various agents. The two readily available agents, clonidine and dexmedetomidine have already been used in many different anaesthetic situations, for a wide variety of surgical procedures. We believe that both of these α2-agonists are useful adjuncts for the management of the neurosurgical patient during surgery, and in the intensive care unit.