What is Precedex? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Feb 15, 2024

Precedex overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Dexmedetomidine HCl Novaplus, Precedex, PremierPro Rx Dexmedetomidine HCl

Generic Names:

  • Dexmedetomidine Hcl

Uses:

  • Keeps you asleep during surgery or other medical procedures.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Analgesic, Anesthetic Adjunct, Sedative

Forms:

  • Injectable

How it’s taken:

  • By injection

What is Precedex used for?

What form(s) does Precedex come in?

  • Injectable

What are common Precedex dosages?

  • Vial 20ml of 80mcg/20ml

  • Vial 2ml of 200mcg/2ml

  • Glass Cont 50ml of 200mcg/50ml

  • Bottle 50ml of 200mcg/50ml

  • Bottle 100ml of 400mcg/100ml

Precedex images - What does Precedex look like?

  • Precedex
    100ml of 400mcg/100ml bottle

  • Precedex
    250ml of 1000mcg/250ml bottle

  • Precedex
    100ml of 400mcg/100ml glass cont

  • Precedex
    250ml of 1000mcg/250ml glass cont

  • Precedex
    2ml of 200mcg/2ml vial

How to take Precedex

  • A healthcare professional will give you this medicine before your surgery or medical procedure. You will not take this medicine yourself.

What to do if you miss a dose of Precedex

Precedex contraindications - Who shouldn't take Precedex?

  • This medicine is generally considered safe for most people. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Precedex warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have diabetes, heart disease, high or low blood pressure, or liver disease.

  • Chest pain, trouble breathing

  • Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting

Precedex interactions & what to avoid when taking Precedex

  • Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.

Precedex side effects - How does Precedex make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Chest pain, trouble breathing

  • Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Nervousness, agitation, headache

  • Nausea, vomiting

  • Constipation

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