The results of this clinical trial support that IN DEX is not inferior to 50% nitrous oxide in providing analgesia for a painful procedure among children 3–15 years of age. Furthermore, IN DEX can be considered as an alternative to 50N2O for procedural sedation and analgesia in the emergency department.

This prospective, equally randomized, open-label, non-inferiority trial was conducted at a Pediatric Emergency Department.

Previously healthy children 3–15 years of age, with an extremity fracture or luxation or a burn and requiring procedural sedation and analgesia were eligible. Patients were randomized to receive either intranasal dexmedetomidine or inhaled nitrous oxide.

The primary outcome measure was highest pain level during the procedure, assessed with Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability scale (FLACC).

Mann-Whitney U test (continuous variables) and Fisher’s test (categorical variables) were used for statistical analysis.

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