Dexmedetomidine and Shivering

Q: Dexmedetomidine can __________ shivering. - Select one

A) exacerbate

B) suppress

Answer: B

Shivering is a common problem in the ICU, particularly post-op patients. Forced-air warming system (Bair Hugger), sedation, meperidine, and occasionally neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) are used.

Dexmedetomidine is less commonly used for this indication, although it can effectively suppress shivering; the patient should be monitored for hypotension and bradycardia.

#surgical-critical-care

References:

1. Shokri M, Bakhtiari Z, Kargar B, Hajialigol A. The Effect of Intravenous Dexmedetomidine During Surgery in the Prevention of Shivering After General Anesthesia in Patients Undergoing Spinal Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Anesth Pain Med. 2025 May 18;15(2):e159077. doi: 10.5812/aapm-159077. PMID: 40717905; PMCID: PMC12297032.

2. Nesioonpour S, Bayat S, Ghomeishi A, Behaeen K, Savaie M, Ahmadzadeh A. Effect of Intravenous Dexmedetomidine on Shivering in Cesarean Section under Intrathecal Anesthesia: Randomized Clinical Trial. Anesth Pain Med. 2022 Jun 19;12(3):e122735. doi: 10.5812/aapm-122735. PMID: 36818484; PMCID: PMC9923329.

3. Callaway CW, Elmer J, Guyette FX, et al. Dexmedetomidine Reduces Shivering during Mild Hypothermia in Waking Subjects. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129709.