Procedural sedation is often required in paediatrics to execute diagnostic procedures. There are many sedative drugs that may be used, but all of them carry not negligible side effect risks and may not be easy to manage. The use of dexmedetomidine has increased in the last few years because of its sedation efficacy in painless procedures. Paediatricians should know the use of dexmedetomidine because of its sensational safety profile even in neonates, its administration route versatility, its neuroprotective properties and its in-home palliative care role in children with otherwise untreatable sleep disorders. This article summarizes the main characteristics of dexmedetomidine, its use, strengths and weaknesses.
