The Effects of Dexmedetomidine on the Heart Beat During Elective Surgery in Children
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2017-12-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
Dexmedetomidine is a sedative drug that is commonly used to improve calmness and reduce pain
in children waking up after surgery. Some of the side effects of dexmedetomidine, such as a
potential change in how the heart muscles contract and changes in blood sugar and potassium
levels, are poorly understood. The current study aims to examine these changes directly in
healthy children undergoing elective surgery by measuring the heart beats (with an
electrocardiogram) and blood sugar and potassium at specific times before and after
dexmedetomidine is given. The investigators aim to establish a better understanding of this
drug's safety profile.