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Alpha 2-agonist agents: a review for CRNAs
1Medical College of Georgia School of Nursing, Augusta 30912, USA.
CRNA : the Clinical Forum for Nurse Anesthetists
|December 29, 1998
Summary
Clonidine, an alpha 2-adrenergic agent, is increasingly researched in anesthesia. It is currently used for hypertension and may become important for pain control as an anesthetic adjunct.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Alpha 2-adrenergic agents are used by nurse anesthetists for hypertension.
- Over 300 clonidine research articles published in anesthesia journals recently.
- Growing interest in clonidine's role beyond hypertension management.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review the alpha 2-adrenergic (A2) receptor.
- Discuss clonidine as a key agonist agent.
- Explore potential future applications of clonidine in anesthesia.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clonidine-related research.
- Analysis of current clinical applications of alpha 2-adrenergic agents.
- Examination of the pharmacology of the A2 receptor.
Main Results:
- Clonidine is a significant alpha 2-adrenergic agonist.
- Existing research highlights clonidine's efficacy in hypertension.
- Emerging evidence suggests potential for pain management.
Conclusions:
- Alpha 2-adrenergic agents, like clonidine, have established roles in anesthesia.
- Clonidine's utility may expand to anesthetic adjuncts for pain control.
- Further research is warranted to explore clonidine's full potential.
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