Alpha-2 adrenergic receptor (α2-AR) agonists are a class of drugs used for a variety of indications including hypertension, pain, sedation, and opioid withdrawal. The most common α2-AR agonists are clonidine, dexmedetomidine, guanfacine, tizanidine, and lofexidine. This Fast Fact explores the use of α2-AR agonists in seriously ill patients. Other than for opioid withdrawal, their use in the seriously ill population is mostly as 2nd- and 3rd-line drugs.
Link: Fast Facts #482 (04/2024)
