The invention provides devices, kits and approaches for treating pain,comprisinga composition of the .alpha.2 adrenergic agonist, dexmedetomidine.Clinically,dexmedetomidine is used as a sedative and is parenterally, intravenously ororallyadministered, thus requiring close supervision by healthcare professionals.Providedherein are select embodiments of transdermal delivery devices that areconfigured tomaintain contact with a subject and comprise dexmedetomidine compositions thatareformulated in a manner sufficient to deliver an amount of dexmedetomidine tothe skinsurface of the subject for treating pain.
