Brevital Sodium and Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride Injection

• Generic Name: methohexital
• Dosage Forms: injection, powder, lyophilized, for solution
• Other Brand Names: Brevital Sodium

Brevital Sodium is a barbiturate (bar-BIT-chur-ate). This medicine slows the activity of your brain and nervous system.

Brevital Sodium is used to cause you to fall asleep before a surgery or other medical procedure.

Brevital Sodium may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

• Generic Name: dexmedetomidine
• Dosage Forms: injection
• Other Brand Names: Precedex

Dexmedetomidine is a sedative that is used to sedate a patient who is under intensive medical care and needs a mechanical ventilator (breathing machine).

Before a ventilator is used, a breathing tube must be inserted through the mouth and into the patient's airway, a procedure called intubation. The tube is then attached to the ventilator, which pumps air slowly into the lungs to control the patient's breathing. Sedation with dexmedetomidine can help keep the patient relaxed and comfortable while the ventilator and tube are in place.

Dexmedetomidine is also used during anesthesia to get a patient ready for a surgery or other medical procedure.

Dexmedetomidine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.