Progress of application of dexmedetomidine in cancer treatment

Cancer is a serious disease threatening human life and social development, and has become one of the most important medical and health problems in the world. As the changing of disease patterns change and the trending of aging population, the burden of cancer patients is increasing in China. In clinical practice, various anesthesia methods are indispensable to complete surgery, invasive examinations and other operations. Therefore, safe and effective narcotic analgesic for cancer patients is the key factor for successful completion of examination and treatment. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) is a novel α2-adrenergic receptor agonist. Comparing with traditional opioids, Dex is more effective and safer, and can provide sedation, anxiolytic and analgesia after administration. In this paper, the progress of the usage of Dex in cancer patients was summarized to guide clinical treatment programs. Key words: Dexmedetomidine; Application; Sedation; Analgesia; Anxiolysis