Uses:	sedation particularly in ICU context
Mechanism of action	stimulates alpha 2 adrenoceptors → ↓ central and peripheral sympathetic noradrenaline site of action: locus ceruleus
Therapeutic effect	- Anxiolytic - Analgesia
Dose
Pharmacokinetics	Absorption: good oral bioavailability Distribution Metabolism Elimination
Time course of action
Adverse effects	hypotension
Contraindications

use in intensive care

Systematic reviews
Wang et al 2017:
- 8 RCTs, n = 642
- no difference in mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation
- reduction in opioid use

sources/links