In the initial phase of anesthesia, which cardiovascular effect may occur with dexmedetomidine?

In the initial phase of anesthesia, which cardiovascular effect may occur with dexmedetomidine?

• A. Hypotension only
• B. Tachycardia and hypertension
• C. Hypertension and bradycardia
• D. No cardiovascular effects

Answer: (C)

Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that decreases sympathetic outflow. In the first moments after administration, there is peripheral alpha-2–mediated vasoconstriction, which can raise systemic vascular resistance and increase blood pressure. At the same time, the central sympatholytic effect leads to a slower heart rate. This combination—transient hypertension with bradycardia—is a classic early cardiovascular response to dexmedetomidine during the induction phase. Over time, as central effects predominate, blood pressure and heart rate may decline further, but the initial pattern fits hypertension with bradycardia rather than hypotension or tachycardia.

Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that decreases sympathetic outflow. In the first moments after administration, there is peripheral alpha-2–mediated vasoconstriction, which can raise systemic vascular resistance and increase blood pressure. At the same time, the central sympatholytic effect leads to a slower heart rate. This combination—transient hypertension with bradycardia—is a classic early cardiovascular response to dexmedetomidine during the induction phase. Over time, as central effects predominate, blood pressure and heart rate may decline further, but the initial pattern fits hypertension with bradycardia rather than hypotension or tachycardia.