Could a simple drink replace needles for Kids' MRI sedation?

NCT ID NCT05619627

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Soroush Merchant Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Aug 05, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This early study tests whether a liquid sedative called dexmedetomidine, given by mouth, can safely and effectively sedate children aged 3 to 6 for MRI scans. Currently, many young children need general anesthesia for MRI, which carries risks and requires needles. The trial will compare oral dexmedetomidine to standard general anesthesia in 18 children to find a safe dose that produces clear images.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Dexmedetomidine (oral sedative)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simpler, needle-free sedation option for young children needing MRI scans, reducing reliance on general anesthesia.
What could go wrong: This is a very early Phase 1 trial with only 18 participants. The drug may not provide adequate sedation for all children, and safety in this age group is still being explored.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ANESTHESIA are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANESTHESIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Children's Mercy Hospital

Kansas City, Missouri, 64108, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.