Dexmedetomidine-induced decrease in cerebral blood flow is attenuated by verapamil in rats: a laser Doppler study

This study was performed to examine the changes in local cortical blood flow (CoBF) after simultaneous administration of an alpha 2 adrenergic agonist (dexmedetomidine) and a calcium channel antagonist (verapamil) to urethane-anaesthetized rats. Dexmedetomidine (100 micrograms.kg-1) given intraperitoneally alone resulted in decreases in mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) (F[27,140] = 3.43; P < 0.01) and CoBF (F[27,140] = 4.22; P < 0.01), whereas the heart rate (HR) was increased (F[27,140] = 2.33; P < 0.01). Verapamil (2.5 mg.kg-1) given subcutaneously reduced the MABP (F[27,140] = 3.41; P < 0.01), but the HR and CoBF were not changed. Combined administration of the drugs decreased MAPB (F[27,140] = 5.37; P < 0.01), with no changes in CoBF and HR. The present data indicate that the calcium channel antagonist verapamil did not potentiate the haemodynamic effects of dexmedetomidine in rats, but rather attenuated the effect of dexmedetomidine on CoBF. This favourable interaction suggests a potential therapeutic role of these agents in maintaining cardiovascular stability during surgical interventions.