DEX-TBI

View publication Safety of dexmedetomidine for the control of agitation in critically ill traumatic brain injury patients: a descriptive study

Behavioural disturbances such as agitation are common following traumatic brain injury and can interfere with treatments, cause self-harm and delay rehabilitation. As there is a lack of evidence on the optimal approach to manage agitation in recovering TBI patients, various pharmacological agents are used including antipsychotics, anticonvulsants and sedative agents. Among sedatives, the safety and efficacy of dexmedetomidine to control agitation in traumatic brain injury patients is not well documented.

Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine use was safe and associated with a reduction in agitation in traumatic brain injury patients in the 96 hours following its initiation.