Alpha2-adrenoceptor agonists.

Alpha2-Adrenoceptor agonists have an immensely diverse utility in peri-operative and critical care medicine. In particular, their application as premedicants, analgesics and hypnotics/sedatives is becoming increasingly popular with delivery to a wide spectrum of patients. The ability of these agents to provide renal, cardiac and neurocognitive protection is only just being realized and requires further study.