The efficacy and neurotoxicity of dexmedetomidine administered via the epidural route.

Background: alpha(2)-Adrenoceptor agonists administered into the intrathecal and epidural space have been found to be effective in the treatment of chronic pain. Moreover, it was shown that they increase the analgesic effects of local anaesthetics and provide sedation, anxiolysis and haemodynamic stability. Dexmedetomidine, a potent and highly selective alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agonist, is in current clinical use, particularly in the intensive care unit.

An important public health problem: rabies suspected bites and post-exposure prophylaxis in a health district in Turkey.

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe rabies suspected animal bites and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) practices in Narlidere District in Turkey between 1999 and 2001.

Methods: One thousand five hundred and sixty-nine rabies suspected bite cases reported were identified from the District's rabies surveillance forms.

Results: Males comprised 66.