title: Long QT syndrome unmasked by dexmedetomidine: a case report.
abstract: Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that is used frequently for short-term sedation in children. It has been noted to cause hypertension, hypotension, bradycardia, and sinus pauses; however, QTc prolongation has not been reported with dexmedetomidine administration. We describe a case of marked QT prolongation with use of dexmedetomidine in a pediatric critical care setting. Clinicians should be vigilant about potential QT prolongation in patients on dexmedetomidine, particularly in those receiving multiple other medications.
authors.affiliation: Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
authors.forename: Kristin M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Burns
authors.forename: E Anne
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Greene
mesh_terms: D058647:Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D020927:Dexmedetomidine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004562:Electrocardiography; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000009:adverse effects*; D007223:Infant; D008133:Long QT Syndrome / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D012307:Risk Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D058647:Adrenergic alpha-2 Receptor Agonists; D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D020927:Dexmedetomidine
keywords: Dexmedetomidine; Pediatric Cardiology; Pediatric Critical Care; QT Prolongation