Abstract: Objective:To observe the effect and safety of dexmedetomidine(Dex) for preventing agitation in anesthesia recovery period.Methods:Sixty patients(ASA Ⅰor Ⅱ) were randomly divided into two groups(n=30).In Dex group(group D),Dex was injected by micro pump 10 minutes before surgery and continued until wound was sutured.In fentanyl group(group F),1 g/kg fentanyl was injected when the wound was sutured.The spontaneous breathing recovery time,extubation time,the incidence and degree of anesthesia recovery period in all patients were observed.The recovery period with nausea and vomiting,drowsiness and respiratory depression and other adverse events were recorded.Results:There were no statistical differences about spontaneous breathing recovery time and extubation time in all patients of the two groups(P0.05).Compared with group F,the incidence and degree of agitation in group D were significantly lower(P0.01).Nausea,vomiting,drowsiness and respiratory depression were also significantly reduced(P0.01).Conclusions:Dex applied in general anesthesia can reduce the agitation of anesthesia recovery period and no respiratory depression.It is safe and effective for preventing agitation in anesthesia recovery period