An Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist such as Dexdomitor can cause peripheral vasoconstriction leading to pale mucous membranes. Which drug is given as an example?

An Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonist such as Dexdomitor can cause peripheral vasoconstriction leading to pale mucous membranes. Which drug is given as an example?

• A. Dexdomitor
• B. Xylazine
• C. Medetomidine
• D. Lidocaine

Answer: (A)

Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists cause peripheral vasoconstriction by stimulating alpha-2 receptors on vascular smooth muscle, which can reduce blood flow to mucous membranes and make them appear pale. Dexdomitor is the brand name for dexmedetomidine, a highly selective alpha-2 agonist used for sedation and analgesia. Because the stem uses Dexdomitor as the example of this vasoconstrictive effect, the drug shown in the options that fits is the one labeled Dexdomitor. The other alpha-2 agonists listed (xylazine and medetomidine) are similar agents, but lidocaine is not an alpha-2 agonist and does not produce this vasoconstrictive pattern.

Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists cause peripheral vasoconstriction by stimulating alpha-2 receptors on vascular smooth muscle, which can reduce blood flow to mucous membranes and make them appear pale. Dexdomitor is the brand name for dexmedetomidine, a highly selective alpha-2 agonist used for sedation and analgesia. Because the stem uses Dexdomitor as the example of this vasoconstrictive effect, the drug shown in the options that fits is the one labeled Dexdomitor. The other alpha-2 agonists listed (xylazine and medetomidine) are similar agents, but lidocaine is not an alpha-2 agonist and does not produce this vasoconstrictive pattern.