Sometimes, a person with a mental illness like Bipolar Disorder or Schizophrenia can suddenly experience a great deal of restlessness and agitation. At this time, it is difficult to control their thoughts, and they may also be afraid of harming themselves or others. Today, we are talking about a special medicine that is used to quickly calm the mind in such an emergency. Its name is Dexmedetomidine.
Simply put, what is Dexmedetomidine?
Dexmedetomidine is not a medicine that you can buy at a pharmacy and keep at home. It is a medicine that is given under medical supervision in a hospital or clinic . It does not come as a pill, but as a very thin film. It is known by the brand name IGALMI.
Its main function is to control sudden, severe agitation and agitation associated with conditions such as Bipolar Disorder or Schizophrenia. Simply put, this medicine calms your nervous system , reduces that agitation, and brings peace of mind.
How do you use this medicine?
The way this is given is a little different. When you are in the hospital, a doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. They will show you clearly how to use it.
- This thin film is meant to be placed under your tongue or on the inside of your lower lip .
- Once it's in that position , it's not a good idea to move it around, chew it, or swallow it . It should be allowed to dissolve and be absorbed by the body.
- Very important: If the film is placed under the tongue, do not eat or drink anything for 15 minutes . If it is placed on the inside of the lower lip, do not eat or drink anything for one hour .
This is not a daily medication. It is given in a hospital setting only in case of an emergency. Therefore, the phrase 'missed dose' does not apply here.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before giving you this medicine, your doctor will ask you a few questions. It is very important that you tell them everything about your health. Be sure to tell them if you have any of the following:
- Heart disease: If you have any heart disease.
- Irregular heartbeat: If the heart beats abnormally fast, slow, or has an irregular rhythm.
- Liver disease: If you have any problems with your liver.
- Low blood pressure: If your blood pressure is constantly low.
- Slow heartbeat: If the heart rate is slower than normal.
- Allergies: If you have an allergy to dexmedetomidine, any other medicine, food, or dyes.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Because dexmedetomidine is a drug that causes drowsiness and sedation, taking it with other drugs that have this effect can increase the effects unnecessarily. Therefore, tell your doctor about everything you are taking.
| Type of medicine/substance | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | Taking this medicine with alcohol may cause excessive drowsiness and dizziness. |
| Sedatives (Benzodiazepines) | Examples: Medications like Alprazolam, Diazepam, Lorazepam. |
| Medicines for some allergies (Antihistamines) | Medications such as piridine that cause drowsiness. |
| Medications for depression (Antidepressants) | Some medications such as Amitriptyline and Trazodone. |
| Some medications for migraines | Medications such as Phenobarbital. |
| Medicine for drowsiness | Any medicine that helps you sleep. |
| Painkillers (Opioids) | Some pain or cough medicines, such as Tramadol and Morphine. |
This list is not exhaustive. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor not only about any other medications, herbs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking, but also if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs .
Possible side effects after taking the medicine
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Some are serious and need to be reported immediately. Some are normal, but should be reported if they persist.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor/nurse immediately. | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly, dizziness, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Low Blood Pressure | Dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Dizziness and drowsiness | This is the main side effect of this medicine. That's why they say not to do things like drive. |
| Dry mouth | Feeling of dryness in the mouth and throat. |
| Numbness of the mouth or tongue | A numb feeling where the medicine was applied. |
What if I take too much medicine?
This is a hospital-based drug, so the chances of this happening are low. However, if you suspect that you have overdosed on this medication, immediately report it to the hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) . If necessary, you can also call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Dexmedetomidine is a special medication given in a hospital to control sudden agitation caused by bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
- This comes as a thin film that is placed under the tongue or inside the lower lip. It should not be chewed or swallowed.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about your other health conditions and all medications you are taking .
- This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness . Therefore, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
- Notify medical staff immediately if you experience any serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, changes in heart rate, or extreme dizziness.
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