Comparing Dexmedetomidine Prescribing Patterns and Safety in the Naturalistic Setting Versus Published Data

BACKGROUND:In clinical practice, new drugs may be used differently than the product labeling recommends. Furthermore, it often takes several years of use before adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are reported.OBJECTIVE:To compare prescribing patterns and safety of the newly released drug dexmedetomidine as observed in clinical practice with published data on the drug.METHODS:Information from a convenience sample of adults receiving dexmedetomidine as part of routine patient care at 10 institutions was retrospectively collected from June 27, 2001, to May 31, 2002. Investigators reviewed medical records daily and entered dosing information, patient demographics, and predefined categories of ADR severity and probability anonymously via the Internet on a secure server.RESULTS:Only 33% of the total sample (n = 136) of patients received a loading infusion of dexmedetomidine; however, maintenance dosing was usually within product labeling guidelines. Of note, 27.2% of patients received dexmedetomidine above the maxim...