Precedex

Abbott Laboratories needed a name with distinction for dexmedetomidine, an alpha-2 agonist, with novel sedative and analgesic properties for controlling stress, anxiety, and pain in patient's adapting to mechanical ventilation.

The name Precedex was a clear winner and memorable for intensive care unit personnel. It conveys the precedent-setting nature of this compound, which offers an option to the current standard of care.