ATCvet code: QN05CM18

Sedadex contains dexmedetomidine as the active substance, which produces sedation and analgesia in dogs and cats. The duration and depth of the sedation and analgesia are dose-dependent. At maximal effect, the animal is relaxed, recumbent and does not respond to external stimuli.

Dexmedetomidine is a potent and selective α2-adrenoceptor agonist that inhibits the release of noradrenaline from noradrenergic neurons. Sympathetic neurotransmission is prevented and the level of consciousness decreases. Reduced heart rate and temporary AV-block can be seen after administration of dexmedetomidine. Blood pressure decreases to normal or below normal levels after an initial increase. Respiration rate can occasionally decrease. Dexmedetomidine also induces a number of other α2-adrenoceptor mediated effects, which include piloerection, depression of motor and secretory functions of the gastrointestinal tract, diuresis and hyperglycaemia.

A slight decrease in temperature may be observed.

As a lipophilic compound, dexmedetomidine is well absorbed after intramuscular administration. Dexmedetomidine is also rapidly distributed in the body and penetrates the blood-brain barrier readily. According to studies in rats, the maximum concentration in the central nervous system is several times that of the corresponding concentration in plasma. In the circulation, dexmedetomidine is largely bound to plasma proteins (>90%).

Dogs: After an intramuscular dose of 50 micrograms/kg a maximum concentration in plasma of about 12 nanograms/ml is reached after 0.6 hours. The bioavailability of dexmedetomidine is 60% and the apparent volume of distribution (Vd) is 0.9 l/kg. The elimination half-life (t1⁄2) is 40-50 minutes.

Major biotransformations in the dog include hydroxylation, glucuronic acid conjugation and N-methylation in the liver. All known metabolites lack pharmacological activity. Metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine and to a lesser extent in the faeces. Dexmedetomidine has a high clearance and its elimination depends on the hepatic blood flow. A prolonged elimination half-life is therefore expected with overdoses or when dexmedetomidine is co-administered with other substances, which affect hepatic circulation.

Cats: After a 40 micrograms/kg body weight intramuscular dose the Cmax is 17 ng/ml. The maximum plasma concentration is reached about 0.24 hours after intramuscular administration. The apparent volume of distribution (Vd) is 2.2 l/kg and the elimination half-life t1⁄2) is one hour.

Biotransformations in the cat occur by hydroxylation in the liver. Metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine (51% of the dose), and to a lesser extent in the faeces. As in dogs dexmedetomidine has a high clearance in cats and its elimination depends on the hepatic blood flow. A prolonged elimination half-life is therefore expected with overdoses or when dexmedetomidine is co-administered with other substances, which affect hepatic circulation.