<prompt> Dexmeditomedine is a:Centrally acting alpha-2 agonistCentrally acting alpha-2 antagonistPeripherally acting alpha-2 agonistPeripherally acting alpha-2 antagonist  <response>: Ans. a. Centrally acting alpha-2 agonist Ref: KDT 7e p384; Katzung 12e p445Dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 agonist with strong sedative properties.Dexmedetomidine is an alpha-2 agonist with strong sedative properties. It has a half-life of 2-3 hours and is metabolized in the liver and excreted, mainly as metabolites, in the urine. - Katzung 12e p445Dexmedetomidine is a centrally active selective alpha-2a agonist that has been introduced for sedating critically illventilated patients in intensive care units. It is also being used as an adjunct to anaesthesia Analgesia and sedation are produced with little respiratory depression. Sympathetic response to stress and noxious stimulus is blunted. It is administered by i.v. infusion. Side effects are similar to those with clonidine hypotension, bradycardia and dry mouth. It has been recently approved for use in India as well. KDT 7e p384 