These results demonstrate that intranasally (IN) dexmedetomidine is relatively rapidly absorbed and causes significant sedation in pediatric patients. Pharmacokinetics of IN dexmedetomidine in pediatric patients show quite similar characteristics compared to adults, and our findings regarding the sedative effects are consistent with previous results published for pediatric patients.

The results suggest that IN dexmedetomidine as sole agent might not be sufficient for procedural MRI sedation of pediatric patients, and combination with other sedative agents may be needed.

Because the volumes of the preparation used in our study exceed the recommended volumes for IN administration, there appears to be a need for a more concentrated dexmedetomidine solution.

The optimal dose and drug delivery system for IN dexmedetomidine dosing remain to be evaluated.

This was an open-label, single-period study without randomization. Pediatric patients from 5 months to 11 years of age scheduled for MRI and receiving IN dexmedetomidine for premedication as part of their care were included in this clinical trial.

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