Pharmacokinetic characteristics and clinical applications of dexmedetomidine nasal spray

Dexmedetomidine is a selective α2-adrenergic receptor agonist that provides excellent sedative and analgesic effects with minimal respiratory depression, which has led to its widespread use in anesthesia and critical care settings. For several decades, injectable dexmedetomidine formulations have been administered clinically for a variety of sedation purposes. More recently, increasing attention has been directed toward intranasal spray formulations. Intranasal administration offers the combined advantages of rapid systemic absorption and noninvasive delivery, making it especially useful for preoperative sedation in pediatric patients and for minor procedures in which avoiding invasive interventions is preferred. This review summarizes recent research trends regarding the pharmacokinetic properties and clinical applications of intranasal dexmedetomidine spray formulations.