The least likely side effect of dexmedetomidine in a healthy patient is which?

The least likely side effect of dexmedetomidine in a healthy patient is which?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Sinus arrest
• D. Respiratory arrest

Answer: (D)

Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that provides sedation and analgesia while largely preserving respiratory drive and airway reflexes. Its main adverse effects are cardiovascular: bradycardia and hypotension from central sympatholysis, and sometimes a brief hypertension from peripheral alpha-2B-mediated vasoconstriction. It can occasionally cause sinus arrest, particularly at higher doses or with heightened vagal tone. Because it does not cause significant respiratory depression, respiratory arrest is unlikely in a healthy patient. So the least likely side effect among the options is respiratory arrest.

Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that provides sedation and analgesia while largely preserving respiratory drive and airway reflexes. Its main adverse effects are cardiovascular: bradycardia and hypotension from central sympatholysis, and sometimes a brief hypertension from peripheral alpha-2B-mediated vasoconstriction. It can occasionally cause sinus arrest, particularly at higher doses or with heightened vagal tone. Because it does not cause significant respiratory depression, respiratory arrest is unlikely in a healthy patient. So the least likely side effect among the options is respiratory arrest.