Withdrawal from multiple sedative agent therapy in an infant: is dexmedetomidine the cause or the cure?
OBJECTIVE
To report withdrawal symptoms experienced by an infant following the prolonged use of dexmedetomidine.


METHODS
Case report.


METHODS
Pediatric intensive care unit at a freestanding tertiary care children's hospital.


METHODS
One pediatric patient with respiratory failure following pertussis infection that required prolonged intubation and sedation. The patient required dexmedetomidine to maintain optimal sedation before ventilator weaning. Subsequent to receiving dexmedetomidine the patient developed withdrawal symptoms.


CONCLUSIONS
In patients who fail to achieve adequate sedation with the use of traditional medications, dexmedetomidine is an adequate alternative. However, abrupt discontinuation of dexmedetomidine may result in withdrawal symptoms that may be avoided with a dexmedetomidine taper.
Darnell
Cindy
C
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA. cindy.darnell@childrens.com
Steiner
Jeff
J
Szmuk
Peter
P
Sheeran
Paul
P
D000316:Adrenergic alpha-Agonists / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D020927:Dexmedetomidine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006776:Hospitals, Pediatric; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome; D015300:Ventilator Weaning
D000316:Adrenergic alpha-Agonists; D020927:Dexmedetomidine