Attenuation of hemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation with dexmedetomidine: a randomized controlled trial

Background: Laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation causes marked increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Even though various agent tried to blunt the hemodynamic response but none of them proved to be an ideal. The aim of the study was to compare dexmedetomidine and placebo in blunting the hemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation.Methods: A randomized placebo controlled study with total of 90 patients were included in the study of which 30 patients received dexmedetomidine (Group D) 10 minutes prior to endotracheal intubation and 30 patients received 3 ml Normal Saline (Group C) 10 minutes prior to endotracheal intubation. They were evaluated with change in heart rate and mean arterial pressure at 1, 3 and 5 minutes post laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation. Any adverse effect of the drug was noted. Results: Age, gender, physical status and weight were comparable between the groups. Heart rate and mean arterial pressure attenuated significantly in dexmedetomidine group (p<0.001 in 1, 3 and 5 minute intervals respectively), whereas placebo failed to attenuate hemodynamic response after laryngoscopy and intubation in any measured interval. No complications were noted. Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine 1 mcg/kg given 10 min prior to endotracheal intubation significantly attenuates heart rate and mean arterial pressure at 1, 3 and 5 minutes compared to placebo.