Dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant analgesic to improve patient outcomes

Abstract

Poorly managed pain control in the perioperative period can result in decreased patient satisfaction, delayed recovery, prolonged hospitalization, and further complications. Acute postoperative pain can progress to chronic pain syndromes, which can affect the patient’s quality of life. The mainstay of perioperative pain management has largely been opioid based. Opioid-related side effects include ventilatory depression, excessive sedation, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), constipation, and itching. Researchers have recently identified the direct correlation between the perioperative administration of opioids and occurrence of adverse events. Hence, emerging trends are shifting towards minimizing and alleviating the use of opioids. The ideal perioperative pain management plan aims to prevent and relieve pain while limiting side effects.