Abstract
The actions of the selective α 2-adrenoceptor agonist dexmedetomidine were examined on the nociceptive C and innocuous Aβ fibre-evoked responses of dorsal horn neurones to transcutaneous electrical stimulation in the intact anaesthetized rat. C fibre-evoked responses were dose dependently reduced by intrathecal dexmedetomidine - to a maximum 86 ± 6% inhibition by 10 μg of the agonist. The ED 50 for inhibition of C fibre responses was estimated to be 2.5 μg. Aβ-evoked responses were inhibited to a lesser degree - a maximum 54 ± 8% inhibition after 10 μg dexmedetomidine. The antinociceptive effects of dexmedetomidine were reversed by the α 2-adrenoceptor antagonist atipamezole and the opioid antagonist naloxone. The results are discussed with reference to adrenergic and opioid mechanisms in the spinal cord.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
