Neuropharmacology
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Dexmedetomedine is a potent alpha 2 adrenergic agonist which can reduce anesthetic requirements by over 90% in rats and dogs. This study examined the effects of various doses of dexmedetomidine on the following monitored variables in New Zealand white rabbits: arterial blood gases, mean arterial pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, and level of sedation. Following the percutaneous insertion of arterial and venous catheters, 21 rabbits received an infusion of saline or dexmedetomidine (20, 80 or 320 micrograms/kg). ⋯ To examine the ability of an alpha 2 adrenergic antagonist to reverse the effects of dexmedetomidine, 5 rabbits initially received 320 micrograms/kg of dexmedetomidine as described above. Seven minutes after completion of the infusion, 900 micrograms/kg of the alpha 2 adrenergic antagonist, idazoxan, was administered. This resulted in a prompt and sustained reversal of the hypercarbia and sedation produced by the dexmedetomidine.