Pregnancy There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of use in pregnant women In an in vitro human placenta study, placental transfer of dexmedetomidine occurred Animal studies In pregnant rats, dexmedetomidine placental transfer observed when radiolabeled dexmedetomidine was administered SC Thus, fetal exposure should be expected in humans; use during pregnancy only if potential benefits justify potential fetal risk Lactation Unknown if excreted in human milk Radio-labeled dexmedetomidine administered SC to lactating female rats was excreted in milk Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when administered to breastfeeding women