We thank the readers for their interest in our study [1]. The analysis
was a per-protocol analysis; the same is highlighted in the study flow
chart.
The errors in discussion section in the values of
adverse events in dexmedetomidine group as well as the sample size are
typographical errors.
The authors have opined that not giving bolus dose of
dexmedetomidine could have been a contributory factor in
non-establishment of non-inferiority of dexmedetomidine as compared to
midazolam in our study. The median (IQR) duration of dexmedetomidine
infusion was 26 (14, 48) hours and even without bolus dose, the serum
levels of the drug are likely to be in the therapeutic range to cause
desired sedation. Moreover, the frequency of adverse events in the
dexmedetomidine group argue against the lack of therapeutic levels.
Hence, we feel that bolus dose of dexmedetomidine would not have changed
the outcomes.
