Dexmedetomidine is primarily metabolized by which system, and does it produce active metabolites?

Dexmedetomidine is primarily metabolized by which system, and does it produce active metabolites?

• A. Kidney excretion with active metabolites
• B. Liver (P450) with no active metabolites
• C. Lungs
• D. Not metabolized

Answer: (B)

Dexmedetomidine is cleared mainly through hepatic metabolism. The liver uses cytochrome P450 enzymes and conjugation pathways (like glucuronidation) to metabolize it, and the resulting metabolites are largely inactive. So there are no active metabolites contributing to its effects. Because clearance depends on liver function, hepatic impairment can prolong sedation and lead to interactions with CYP modifiers. Renal excretion of the parent drug is minimal, and it's not cleared by the lungs.

Dexmedetomidine is cleared mainly through hepatic metabolism. The liver uses cytochrome P450 enzymes and conjugation pathways (like glucuronidation) to metabolize it, and the resulting metabolites are largely inactive. So there are no active metabolites contributing to its effects. Because clearance depends on liver function, hepatic impairment can prolong sedation and lead to interactions with CYP modifiers. Renal excretion of the parent drug is minimal, and it's not cleared by the lungs.