In this episode, host Alyssa Watson, DVM, welcomes Carrie Schroeder, DVM, DACVAA, to discuss her recent Clinician’s Brief article, “Dexmedetomidine-Induced Bradycardia in a Great Dane.” The conversation centers around the physiological mechanisms underlying bradycardia and dexmedetomidine's biphasic blood pressure effects. Key aspects of the discussion include patient selection, drug combinations, monitoring protocols, and strategies for managing these cases, offering practical guidance on balancing dexmedetomidine’s benefits with its potential risks.
Key Takeaways
Dexmedetomidine can induce profound bradycardia and atrioventricular block, necessitating treatment in specific circumstances.
Combining dexmedetomidine with opioids optimizes sedation while reducing the required dose of inhalant anesthetics.
Treatment for bradycardia in anesthetized patients is recommended when the heart rate drops below 40 beats per minute, bradyarrhythmias are significant, or hypotension accompanies the bradycardia.
Reversal agents like atipamezole may be considered but might not provide hemodynamic benefits in anesthetized patients.
Anticholinergics (e.g., glycopyrrolate, atropine) and lidocaine are viable options for addressing bradycardia.
Glycopyrrolate’s onset can be delayed even with IV administration. Atropine is preferred for situations requiring rapid intervention.
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The Team:
Alyssa Watson, DVM - Host
Alexis Ussery - Producer & Multimedia Specialist