Previous case series reported an association between dexmedetomidine use and hyperthermia. Temperature data have not been systematically reported in previous randomized controlled trials evaluating dexmedetomidine.

Our study suggests potentially important elevations in body temperature are associated with early dexmedetomidine sedation, in adults who are mechanically ventilated in the ICU.

The primary outcome was mean daily body temperature. Secondary outcomes included the proportions of patients with body temperatures greater than or equal to 38.3°C and greater than or equal to 39°C, respectively.

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