What is the drug class of medetomidine?

Medetomidine is a more specific α2-agonist than xylazine and has a lower incidence of side effects. It can be used on its own as a premedicant, or it can be combined with ketamine to provide surgical anesthesia. Medetomidine causes peripheral vasoconstriction, which gives mucous membranes a slight mauve appearance that may be mistaken for cyanosis. The vasoconstriction is not dangerous, but the poor color of the mucous membranes could mask a true cyanosis should it occur.

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