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Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride | 100 ug/mL | 1718906 | View |
| Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride | 200 ug/50mL | 1718906 | View |
| Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride | 4 ug/mL | 1718906 | View |
| Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride | 400 ug/100mL | 1718906 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Adrenergic alpha2-Agonists [MoA] | MoA | All 44 members |
| Central alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist [EPC] | EPC | All 44 members |
| General Anesthesia [PE] | PE | All 29 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 206407-001 | DEXMEDETOMIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE | INJECTABLE | DEXMEDETOMIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AP | ||
| 206407-002 | DEXMEDETOMIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE | INJECTABLE | DEXMEDETOMIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AP | ||
| 206407-003 | DEXMEDETOMIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE | INJECTABLE | DEXMEDETOMIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AP |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (parenteral aqueous solutions)
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 7 | Labeling | Approved | April 16, 2025 | Standard |
| Supplement | 6 | Labeling | Approved | April 16, 2025 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | January 30, 2020 | Standard |
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260520). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingDosage and Administration, Preparation of Solution ( 2.4 ) 08/2022 Warnings and Precautions, Hyperthermia or Pyrexia ( 5.7 ) 08/2022
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection is an alpha 2 -adrenergic receptor agonist indicated for: • Sedation of initially intubated and mechanically ventilated adult patients during treatment in an intensive care setting. Administer dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection by continuous infusion not to exceed 24 hours. ( 1.1 ) • Sedation of non-intubated adult patients prior to and/or during surgical and other procedures. ( 1.2 ) • Sedation of non-intubated pediatric patients aged 1 month to less than 18 years prior to and during non-invasive procedures. ( 1.2 ) 1.1 Intensive Care Unit Sedation Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection is indicated for sedation of initially intubated and mechanically ventilated adult patients during treatment in an intensive care setting. Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection should be administered by continuous infusion not to exceed 24 hours. Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection has been continuously infused in mechanically ventilated adult patients prior to extubation, during extubation, and post-extubation. It is not necessary to discontinue dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection prior to extubation. 1.2 Procedural Sedation Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection is indicated for sedation of non-intubated adult patients prior to and/or during surgical and other procedures. Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection is indicated for sedation of non-intubated pediatric patients aged 1 month to less than 18 years prior to and during non-invasive procedures.
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Individualize and titrate dexmedetomidine hydrochloride injection dosing to desired clinical effect. (2.1) • Administer dexmedetomidine hydrochloride injection using a controlled infusion device. (2.1) • Dilute the 200mcg/2mL (100mcg/mL)vial contents in 0.9% sodium chloride solution to achieve required concentration (4 mcg/mL) prior to administration. (2.4) For Adult Procedural Sedation: Generally initiate at one mcg/kg over 10 minutes , followed by a maintenance infusion initiated at 0.6 mcg/kg/ hour and titrated to achieve desired clinical effect with doses ranging from 0.2 to 1 mcg/kg/ hour .( 2.2 ) Alternative Doses : Recommended for patients over 65 years of age and awake fiberoptic intubation patients. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Dosing Guidelines • Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride injection dosing should be individualized and titrated to desired clinical response. • Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride injection is not indicated for infusions lasting longer than 24 hours. • Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride injection should be administered using a controlled infusion device. 2.2 Dosage Information Table 1: Dosage Information INDICATION DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Initiation of Procedural Sedation For adult patients: a loading infusion of one mcg/kg over 10 minutes . For less invasive procedures such as ophthalmic surgery, a loading infusion of 0.5 mcg/kg given over 10 minutes may be suitable. For awake fiberoptic intubation in adult patients : a loading infusion of one mcg/kg over 10 minutes . For patients over 65 years of age: a loading infusion of 0.5 mcg/kg over 10 minutes [ see Use in Specific Populations(8.5) ]. For adult patients with impaired hepatic function : a dose reduction should be considered [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Maintenance of Procedural Sedation For adult patients: the maintenance infusion is generally initiated at 0.6 mcg/kg/ hour and titrated to achieve desired clinical effect with doses ranging from 0.2 to 1 mcg/kg/ hour . The rate of the maintenance infusion should be adjusted to achieve the targeted level of sedation. For awake fiberoptic intubation in adult patients: a maintenance infusion of 0.7 mcg/kg/ hour is recommended until the endotracheal tube is secured. For patients over 65 years of age : a dose reduction should be considered [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.5) ] . For adult patients with impaired hepatic function : a dose reduction should be considered [ see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 2.3 Dosage Adjustment Due to possible pharmacodynamic interactions, a reduction in dosage of dexmedetomidine injection or other concomitant anesthetics, sedatives, hypnotics or opioids may be required when co-administered [ see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . Dosage reductions may need to be considered for adult patients with hepatic impairment, and geriatric patients [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) , Use in Specific Populations (8.6) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 2.4 Preparation of Solution Strict aseptic technique must always be maintained during handling of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride injection. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride Injection, 200mcg/2mL (100mcg/mL) Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride injection must be diluted with 0.9% sodium chloride injection to achieve required concentration (4 mcg/mL) prior to administration. Preparation of solutions is the same, whether for the loading dose or maintenance infusion. To prepare the infusion, withdraw 2 mL of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride injection, and add to 48 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride injection to a total of 50 mL. Shake gently to mix well. 2.5 Administration with Other Fluids Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride injection infusion should not be co-administered through the same intravenous catheter with blo …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Dexmedetomidine Injection, USP 200 mcg/2 mL (100 mcg/mL) in a single-dose glass vial. To be used after dilution. ( 3 ) Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, 200 mcg/50 mL (4 mcg/mL) in a single-dose glass vial. Ready to use. ( 3 ) Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, 400 mcg/100 mL (4 mcg/mL) in a single-dose glass vial. Ready to use. ( 3 ) Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride Injection is clear and colorless and is available as follows: Dexmedetomidine Injection, USP Dexmedetomidine Injection, 200 mcg dexmedetomidine/2 mL (100 mcg/mL) in a single-dose glass vial. To be used after dilution. Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, 200 mcg dexmedetomidine/50 mL (4 mcg/mL) in a single-dose glass vial. Ready to use. Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, 400 mcg dexmedetomidine/100 mL (4 mcg/mL) in a single-dose glass vial. Ready to use.
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS None. None. ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Monitoring: Continuously monitor patients while receiving dexmedetomidine hydrochloride. ( 5.1 ) • Bradycardia and Sinus Arrest: Have occurred in young healthy volunteers with high vagal tone or with different routes of administration, e.g., rapid intravenous or bolus administration. ( 5.2 ) • Hypotension and Bradycardia: May necessitate medical intervention. May be more pronounced in patients with hypovolemia, diabetes mellitus, or chronic hypertension, and in the elderly. Use with caution in patients with advanced heart block or severe ventricular dysfunction. ( 5.2 ) • Co-administration with Other Vasodilators or Negative Chronotropic agents: Use with caution due to additive pharmacodynamic effects. ( 5.2 ) • Transient Hypertension: Observed primarily during the loading dose. Consider reduction in loading infusion rate. ( 5.3 ) • Arousability: Patients can become aroused/alert with stimulation; this alone should not be considered as lack of efficacy ( 5.4 ) • Prolonged exposure to dexmedetomidine beyond 24 hours may be associated with tolerance and tachyphylaxis and a dose-related increase in adverse events ( 5.6 ) 5.1 Drug Administration Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride should be administered only by persons skilled in the management of patients in the operating room setting. Due to the known pharmacological effects of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride, patients should be continuously monitored while receiving dexmedetomidine hydrochloride. 5.2 Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Sinus Arrest Clinically significant episodes of bradycardia and sinus arrest have been reported with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride administration in young, healthy adult volunteers with high vagal tone or with different routes of administration including rapid intravenous or bolus administration. Reports of hypotension and bradycardia have been associated with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride infusion. Some of these cases have resulted in fatalities. If medical intervention is required, treatment may include decreasing or stopping the infusion of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride, increasing the rate of intravenous fluid administration, elevation of the lower extremities, and use of pressor agents. Because dexmedetomidine hydrochloride has the potential to augment bradycardia induced by vagal stimuli, clinicians should be prepared to intervene. The intravenous administration of anticholinergic agents (e.g., glycopyrrolate, atropine) should be considered to modify vagal tone. In clinical trials, glycopyrrolate or atropine were effective in the treatment of most episodes of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride-induced bradycardia. However, in some patients with significant cardiovascular dysfunction, more advanced resuscitative measures were required. Caution should be exercised when administering dexmedetomidine hydrochloride to patients with advanced heart block and/or severe ventricular dysfunction. Because dexmedetomidine hydrochloride decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, hypotension and/or bradycardia may be expected to be more pronounced in patients with hypovolemia, diabetes mellitus, or chronic hypertension and in elderly patients. In clinical trials where other vasodilators or negative chronotropic agents were co-administered with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride an additive pharmacodynamic effect was not observed. Nonetheless, caution should be used when such agents are administered concomitantly with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride. 5.3 Transient Hypertension Transient hypertension has been observed primarily during the loading dose in association with the initial peripheral vasoconstrictive effects of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride. Treatment of the transient hypertension has generally not been necessary, although reduction of the loading infusion rate may be desirable. 5.4 Arousability Some patients receiving dexmedetomidine hydrochloride have been observed to be arousable and alert when stimulated. This alone should not be consid …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: • Hypotension, bradycardia and sinus arrest [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Transient hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • The most common adverse reactions (incidence > 2%) in adults are hypotension, bradycardia, and dry mouth. ( 6.1 ) • The most common adverse reactions (incidence > 5%) in pediatric patients aged 1 month to less than 17 years are bradypnea, bradycardia, hypertension, and hypotension. ( 6.1 ) • Adverse reactions in adults, associated with infusions > 24 hours in duration include ARDS, respiratory failure, and agitation. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Mylan at 1-877-446-3679 (1-877-4-INFO-RX) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reactions rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Most common treatment-emergent adverse reactions, occurring in greater than 2% of adult patients in both Intensive Care Unit and procedural sedation studies include hypotension, bradycardia and dry mouth. Intensive Care Unit Sedation Adverse reaction information is derived from the continuous infusion trials of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection for sedation in the Intensive Care Unit setting in which 1,007 adult patients received dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection. The mean total dose was 7.4 mcg/kg (range: 0.8 to 84.1), mean dose per hour was 0.5 mcg/kg/hr (range: 0.1 to 6.0) and the mean duration of infusion of 15.9 hours (range: 0.2 to 157.2). The population was between 17 to 88 years of age, 43% ≥ 65 years of age, 77% male and 93% Caucasian. Treatment-emergent adverse reactions occurring at an incidence of > 2% are provided in Table 3. The most frequent adverse reactions were hypotension, bradycardia and dry mouth [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Table 3: Adverse Reactions with an Incidence > 2%-Adult Intensive Care Unit Sedation Population 1% of All Dexmedetomidine-Treated Adult Patients in the Randomized Placebo-Controlled Continuous Infusion 180 mmHg or Diastolic blood pressure of > 100 mmHg or in relative terms as ≥ 30% higher than pre-study drug infusion value. 28% 42% Tachycardia Tachycardia was defined in absolute terms as > 120 bpm or in relative terms as ≥ 30% greater than pre-study drug infusion value. 25% 44% Tachycardia Requiring Intervention 10% 10% Diastolic Hypertension 12% 15% Hypertension 11% 15% Hypertension Requiring Intervention Includes any type of hypertension. 19% 30% Hypokalemia 9% 13% Pyrexia 7% 2% Agitation 7% 6% Hyperglycemia 7% 2% Constipation 6% 6% Hypoglycemia 5% 6% Respiratory Failure 5% 3% Renal Failure Acute 2% 1% Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome 2% 1% Generalized Edema 2% 6% Hypomagnesemia 1% 7% The following adverse events occurred between 2 and 5% for dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection and midazolam, respectively: renal failure acute (2.5%, 0.8%), acute respiratory distress syndrome (2.5%, 0.8%), and respiratory failure (4.5%, 3.3%). Table 6: Number (%) of Adult Subjects Who Had a Dose-Related Increase in Treatment Emergent Adverse Events by Maintenance Adjusted Dose Rate Range in the Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection Group Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection (mcg/kg/hr) Adverse Event ≤ 0.7 Average maintenance dose over the entire study drug administration. (N = 95) > 0.7 to ≤ 1.1 (N = 78) > 1.1 (N = 71) Constipation 6% 5% 14% Agitation 5% 8% 14% Anxiety 5% 5% 9% Edema Peripheral 3% 5% 7% Atrial Fibrillation 2% 4% 9% Respiratory Failure 2% 6% 10% Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome 1% 3% 9% Adult Procedural Sedation Adverse react …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Anesthetics, Sedatives, Hypnotics, Opioids: Enhancement of pharmacodynamic effects. Reduction in dosage of Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride or the concomitant medication may be required. ( 7.1 ) 7.1 Anesthetics, Sedatives, Hypnotics, Opioids Co-administration of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride with anesthetics, sedatives, hypnotics, and opioids is likely to lead to an enhancement of effects. Specific studies have confirmed these effects with sevoflurane, isoflurane, propofol, alfentanil, and midazolam. No pharmacokinetic interactions between dexmedetomidine hydrochloride and isoflurane, propofol, alfentanil and midazolam have been demonstrated. However, due to possible pharmacodynamic interactions, when co-administered with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride, a reduction in dosage of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride or the concomitant anesthetic, sedative, hypnotic or opioid may be required. 7.2 Neuromuscular Blockers In one study of 10 healthy adult volunteers, administration of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride for 45 minutes at a plasma concentration of one ng/mL resulted in no clinically meaningful increases in the magnitude of neuromuscular blockade associated with rocuronium administration.
7.1 Anesthetics, Sedatives, Hypnotics, Opioids Co-administration of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride with anesthetics, sedatives, hypnotics, and opioids is likely to lead to an enhancement of effects. Specific studies have confirmed these effects with sevoflurane, isoflurane, propofol, alfentanil, and midazolam. No pharmacokinetic interactions between dexmedetomidine hydrochloride and isoflurane, propofol, alfentanil and midazolam have been demonstrated. However, due to possible pharmacodynamic interactions, when co-administered with dexmedetomidine hydrochloride, a reduction in dosage of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride or the concomitant anesthetic, sedative, hypnotic or opioid may be required.
7.2 Neuromuscular Blockers In one study of 10 healthy adult volunteers, administration of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride for 45 minutes at a plasma concentration of one ng/mL resulted in no clinically meaningful increases in the magnitude of neuromuscular blockade associated with rocuronium administration.
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Geriatric Patients: Dose reduction should be considered. ( 2.2 , 2.3 , 5.2 , 8.5 ) • Hepatic Impairment: Dose reduction should be considered. ( 2.2 , 2.3 , 5.9 , 8.6 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data from published randomized controlled trials and case reports over several decades of use with intravenously administered dexmedetomidine during pregnancy have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage; however, the reported exposures occurred after the first trimester. Most of the available data are based on studies with exposures that occurred at the time of caesarean section delivery, and these studies have not identified an adverse effect on maternal outcomes or infant Apgar scores. Available data indicate that dexmedetomidine crosses the placenta. In animal reproduction studies, fetal toxicity that lower fetal viability and reduced live fetuses occurred with subcutaneous administration of dexmedetomidine to pregnant rats during organogenesis at doses 1.8 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 17.8 mcg/kg/day. Developmental toxicity (low pup weights and adult offspring weights, decreased F1 grip strength, increased early implantation loss and decreased viability of second-generation offspring) occurred when pregnant rats were subcutaneously administered dexmedetomidine at doses less than the clinical dose from late pregnancy through lactation and weaning (see Data ) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Increased post-implantation losses and reduced live fetuses in the presence of maternal toxicity (i.e., decreased body weight) were noted in a rat embryo-fetal development study in which pregnant dams were administered subcutaneous doses of dexmedetomidine 200 mcg/kg/day (equivalent to 1.8 times the intravenous MRHD of 17.8 mcg/kg/day based on body surface area [BSA]) during the period of organogenesis (Gestation Day [GD] 6 to 15). No malformations were reported. No malformations or embryo-fetal toxicity were noted in a rabbit embryo-fetal development study in which pregnant does were administered dexmedetomidine intravenously at doses of up to 96 mcg/kg/day (approximately half the human exposure at the MRHD based on AUC) during the period of organogenesis (GD 6 to 18). Reduced pup and adult offspring birth weights, and grip strength were reported in a rat developmental toxicology study in which pregnant females were administered dexmedetomidine subcutaneously at doses of 8 mcg/kg/day (0.07 times the MRHD based on BSA) during late pregnancy through lactation and weaning (GD 16 to postnatal day [PND] 25). Decreased viability of second generation offspring and an increase in early implantation loss along with delayed motor development occurred in the 32 mcg/kg/day group (equivalent to less than the clinical dose based on BSA) when first generation offspring were allowed to mate. This study limited dosing to hard palate closure (GD 15 to 18) through weaning instead of dosing from implantation (GD 6 to 7) to weaning (PND 21). In a study in the pregnant rat, placental transfer of dexmedetomidine was observed when radiolabeled dexmedetomidine was administered subcutaneously. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Available published literature reports the presence of dexmedetomidine in human milk following intravenous administration (see Data ) . There is no information regarding the effects of dexmedetomidine on the breastfed infant or the effects on milk production. Advise women to monitor the breastfed infant for irritability. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along wit …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection is a relatively selective centrally acting alpha 2 -adrenergic agonist with sedative properties. Alpha 2 selectivity is observed in animals following slow intravenous infusion of low and medium doses (10-300 mcg/kg). Both alpha 1 and alpha 2 activity is observed following slow intravenous infusion of high doses (≥ 1,000 mcg/kg) or with rapid intravenous administration.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Dexmedetomidine Injection, USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution suitable for intravenous infusion following dilution. Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection is a sterile, nonpyrogenic ready to use solution suitable for intravenous infusion. Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride is the S-enantiomer of medetomidine and is chemically described as (+)-4-(S)-[1-(2,3-dimethylphenyl)ethyl]-1H-imidazole monohydrochloride. Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride has a molecular weight of 236.7 and the empirical formula is C 13 H 16 N 2 • HCl and the structural formula is: Dexmedetomidine hydrochloride is a white or almost white powder that is freely soluble in water and has a pKa of 7.1. Its partition coefficient in-octanol: water at pH 7.4 is 2.89. Dexmedetomidine Injection, USP is intended to be used after dilution. It is supplied as a clear, colorless, isotonic solution with a pH between 4.5 to 7.0. Each mL contains 118 mcg of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride (equivalent to 100 mcg or 0.1 mg of dexmedetomidine) and 9 mg of sodium chloride in water for injection. The solution is preservative-free and contains no additives or chemical stabilizers. Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection is ready to be used. It is supplied as a clear, colorless, isotonic solution with a pH between 4.5 to 7.0. Each mL contains 4.72 mcg of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride (equivalent to 4 mcg or 0.004 mg of dexmedetomidine) and 9 mg sodium chloride in water for injection. The solution is preservative-free and contains no additives or chemical stabilizers. Chemical Structure
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE The tolerability of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection was studied in one study in which healthy adult subjects were administered doses at and above the recommended dose of 0.2 mcg/kg/hr to 0.7 mcg/kg/hr. The maximum blood concentration achieved in this study was approximately 13 times the upper boundary of the therapeutic range. The most notable effects observed in two subjects who achieved the highest doses were first degree atrioventricular block and second-degree heart block. No hemodynamic compromise was noted with the atrioventricular block and the heart block resolved spontaneously within one minute. Five adult patients received an overdose of dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection in the intensive care unit sedation studies. Two of these patients had no symptoms reported; one patient received a 2 mcg/kg loading dose over 10 minutes (twice the recommended loading dose) and one patient received a maintenance infusion of 0.8 mcg/kg/hr. Two other patients who received a 2 mcg/kg loading dose over 10 minutes, experienced bradycardia and/or hypotension. One patient who received a loading bolus dose of undiluted dexmedetomidine hydrochloride in 0.9% sodium chloride injection (19.4 mcg/kg), had cardiac arrest from which he was successfully resuscitated.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING D exmedetomidine Injection, USP NDC 42023-146-25: 200 mcg/2 mL (100 mcg/mL) is clear and colorless, and available in 2 mL clear glass vials supplied in packages of twenty-five. The strength is based on the dexmedetomidine base. Vials are intended for single-dose only. Discard unused portion. Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection NDC 42023-186-20: 200 mcg/50 mL (4 mcg/mL) is clear and colorless, and available in 50 mL clear glass vials supplied in packages of twenty. NDC 42023-187-10: 400 mcg/100 mL (4 mcg/mL) is clear and colorless, and available in 100 mL clear glass vials supplied in packages of ten. The strength is based on the dexmedetomidine base. Vials are intended for single-dose only. Discard unused portion. Vial stoppers do not contain natural rubber latex. Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) (See USP Controlled Room Temperature.) Do not use if product is discolored or if precipitate matter is present.
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: DEXMEDETOMIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70121-1388-8 | 70121-1388 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC | 20 BOTTLE, GLASS in 1 CARTON (70121-1388-8) / 50 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS (70121-1388-1) | May 20, 2020 |
| 70121-1389-7 | 70121-1389 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC | 10 BOTTLE, GLASS in 1 CARTON (70121-1389-7) / 100 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS (70121-1389-1) | May 20, 2020 |
| 43598-975-58 | 43598-975 | Dr.Reddy's Laboratories Inc | 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (43598-975-58) / 100 mL in 1 VIAL (43598-975-11) | August 17, 2020 |
| 43598-976-58 | 43598-976 | Dr.Reddy's Laboratories Inc | 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (43598-976-58) / 50 mL in 1 VIAL (43598-976-11) | August 17, 2020 |
| 55150-296-10 | 55150-296 | Eugia US LLC | 10 POUCH in 1 CARTON (55150-296-10) / 1 BAG in 1 POUCH / 50 mL in 1 BAG | December 7, 2020 |
| 55150-297-10 | 55150-297 | Eugia US LLC | 10 POUCH in 1 CARTON (55150-297-10) / 1 BAG in 1 POUCH / 100 mL in 1 BAG | December 7, 2020 |
| 63323-421-02 | 63323-421 | Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC | 25 VIAL in 1 TRAY (63323-421-02) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL (63323-421-01) | September 18, 2015 |
| 65219-642-02 | 65219-642 | Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC | 25 VIAL in 1 TRAY (65219-642-02) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL (65219-642-01) | December 13, 2024 |
| 0143-9198-10 | 0143-9198 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 10 BAG in 1 CASE (0143-9198-10) / 250 mL in 1 BAG (0143-9198-01) | March 3, 2026 |
| 0143-9525-10 | 0143-9525 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 10 POUCH in 1 BAG (0143-9525-10) / 1 BAG in 1 POUCH / 100 mL in 1 BAG | January 30, 2020 |
| 0143-9526-10 | 0143-9526 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | 10 POUCH in 1 CASE (0143-9526-10) / 1 BAG in 1 POUCH / 50 mL in 1 BAG | January 30, 2020 |
| 71872-7030-1 | 71872-7030 | Medical Purchasing Solutions, LLC | 1 VIAL in 1 BAG (71872-7030-1) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL | February 28, 2020 |
| 71872-7031-1 | 71872-7031 | Medical Purchasing Solutions, LLC | 1 VIAL in 1 BAG (71872-7031-1) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL | March 2, 2020 |
| 71872-7122-1 | 71872-7122 | Medical Purchasing Solutions, LLC | 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 BAG (71872-7122-1) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE | March 30, 2018 |
| 67457-924-50 | 67457-924 | Mylan Institutional LLC | 20 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (67457-924-50) / 50 mL in 1 BOTTLE (67457-924-00) | November 13, 2020 |
| 67457-925-10 | 67457-925 | Mylan Institutional LLC | 10 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (67457-925-10) / 100 mL in 1 BOTTLE (67457-925-00) | November 13, 2020 |
| 42023-186-20 | 42023-186 | Par Health USA, LLC | 20 VIAL in 1 CARTON (42023-186-20) / 50 mL in 1 VIAL | December 4, 2020 |
| 42023-187-10 | 42023-187 | Par Health USA, LLC | 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (42023-187-10) / 100 mL in 1 VIAL | December 4, 2020 |
| 70069-758-04 | 70069-758 | Somerset Therapeutics, LLC | 4 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70069-758-04) / 4 mL in 1 VIAL | September 26, 2024 |
| 70069-759-04 | 70069-759 | Somerset Therapeutics, LLC | 4 VIAL in 1 CARTON (70069-759-04) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL | September 26, 2024 |
| 57664-596-50 | 57664-596 | Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Inc. | 25 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (57664-596-50) / 2 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (57664-596-40) | April 8, 2015 |
| 70121-1388 | 70121-1388 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC | — | May 20, 2020 |
| 70121-1389 | 70121-1389 | Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC | — | May 20, 2020 |
| 43598-975 | 43598-975 | Dr.Reddy's Laboratories Inc | — | August 17, 2020 |
| 43598-976 | 43598-976 | Dr.Reddy's Laboratories Inc | — | August 17, 2020 |
| 55150-296 | 55150-296 | Eugia US LLC | — | December 7, 2020 |
| 55150-297 | 55150-297 | Eugia US LLC | — | December 7, 2020 |
| 63323-421 | 63323-421 | Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC | — | September 18, 2015 |
| 65219-642 | 65219-642 | Fresenius Kabi USA, LLC | — | September 18, 2015 |
| 0143-9198 | 0143-9198 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | March 3, 2026 |
| 0143-9525 | 0143-9525 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | January 30, 2020 |
| 0143-9526 | 0143-9526 | Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA Inc. | — | January 30, 2020 |
| 71872-7030 | 71872-7030 | Medical Purchasing Solutions, LLC | — | December 21, 2016 |
| 71872-7031 | 71872-7031 | Medical Purchasing Solutions, LLC | — | March 17, 2016 |
| 71872-7122 | 71872-7122 | Medical Purchasing Solutions, LLC | — | April 8, 2015 |
| 67457-924 | 67457-924 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | November 13, 2020 |
| 67457-925 | 67457-925 | Mylan Institutional LLC | — | November 13, 2020 |
| 42023-186 | 42023-186 | Par Health USA, LLC | — | December 4, 2020 |
| 42023-187 | 42023-187 | Par Health USA, LLC | — | December 4, 2020 |
| 70069-758 | 70069-758 | Somerset Therapeutics, LLC | — | September 26, 2024 |
| 70069-759 | 70069-759 | Somerset Therapeutics, LLC | — | September 26, 2024 |
| 57664-596 | 57664-596 | Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, Inc. | — | April 8, 2015 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.