This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: Autonomic nervous system, Subject name: Pharmacology
Dexmedetomidine is a 
Select and explain. 
A. Centrally acting alpha 2 agonist, B. Peripherally acting alpha2 agonist, C. Centrally acting alpha 2 antagonist, D. Peripherally acting alpha 2 antagonist
A: Centrally acting alpha 2 agonist
Answer: A: Centrally acting alpha 2 agonist 
Explanation: Ref: KD Tripathi pharmacology 7th edition (page.no: 384) Dexmedetomidine is a centrally active a2A agonist It is introduced for sedating critically ill/ventilated patients in the intensive care unit. It is used as an adjunct to anaesthesia. Analgesia and sedation are produced with little respiratory depression, amnesia, or anaesthesia