Intravenous dexmedetomidine and its effects on remifentanil-induced hyperalgesia and opioid consumption: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Key Points

• Remifentanil-induced hyperalgesia is reduced with dexmedetomidine, leading to lower opioid consumption.
• Data from multiple trials suggests a significant reduction in pain sensitivity caused by remifentanil.
• Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials confirms these findings across diverse patient populations.
• These findings support dexmedetomidine as a promising adjunct in opioid-based anesthesia protocols.