title: Alpha-2-agonists in day case anaesthesia.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Alpha-2-agonists have long been known to have anaesthetic-sparing, sedative and analgesic properties which are desirable in day case anaesthesia. Their routine use was hampered by a high incidence of undesirable effects, however. In recent years, there have been many attempts to define a role for these unique agents in which their benefits would outweigh their apparent disadvantages.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Many recent studies have confirmed the usefulness of alpha-2-agonists in providing sedation and analgesia, although the results have been far from consistent. Some, but by no means all studies have shown advantages over alternative agents, but concerns also remain over acute and possible long-term adverse effects.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Alpha-2-agonists still have no clearly defined routine role in day surgery. Their most promising application is in limiting recovery agitation in children, but even here, there remain concerns about their routine use.
authors: University Hospital of North Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, UK. damsmith@btinternet.com
authors: Ian
authors: I
authors: Smith
mesh_terms: D000759:Adjuvants, Anesthesia; D058647:Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists; D000328:Adult; D000556:Ambulatory Surgical Procedures; D000758:Anesthesia / Q000379:methods*; D000762:Anesthesia Recovery Period; D002648:Child; D002652:Child Behavior; D006801:Humans; D011595:Psychomotor Agitation / Q000517:prevention & control
chemical_list: D000759:Adjuvants, Anesthesia; D058647:Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists