Dexmedetomidine withdrawal syndrome and opioid sensitivity.

This case report describes the use of dexmedetomidine for refractory cancer pain management in a patient with significant pelvic disease due to metastatic urothelial cancer. Specifically, the management of increased opioid sensitivity secondary to dexmedetomidine is discussed. Further, the phenomenon of dexmedetomidine withdrawal syndrome and our management of this is addressed.