Can a common sedative calm ICU delirium without a breathing tube?
NCT ID NCT03317067
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether the sedative dexmedetomidine can reduce how long non-intubated ICU patients experience agitated delirium. Researchers randomly gave 168 patients either dexmedetomidine or a placebo. The goal was to see if the drug shortens agitation and delirium, and reduces the need for breathing tubes.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
dexmedetomidine
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a way to calm agitated ICU patients without needing a breathing tube, potentially shortening their hospital stay.
What could go wrong
This is a relatively small, early-phase trial, so results may not apply to all ICU patients. Dexmedetomidine can cause low blood pressure or slow heart rate.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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CHU Clermont-Ferrand
Clermont-Ferrand, 63003, France