SEDCOM

Dexmedetomidine versus Midazolam for Sedation

Patient / Population Intervention / Exposure Comparison Outcome

In 375 mechanically ventilated ICU patients, dexmedetomidine reduced delirium compared with midazolam.

375

Design

Multicentre double-blind RCT

Endpoint

Percentage of time within target RASS sedation range

Relevance

ResultNo difference in time at target sedation (77.3% vs 75.1%, P=.18); delirium 54% vs 76.6% (P<.001); extubation 1.9 d earlier (P=.01).

Riker RR, et al. JAMA. 2009;301(5):489-499. 10.1001/jama.2009.56

Discussion & critique

Established dexmedetomidine as a delirium-sparing alternative to benzodiazepines.