In surgical procedures, it is necessary to maintain the patient’s tranquility and calm , since this moment can be a very traumatic event and, furthermore, the success of the medical intervention depends on the relaxation of the patient.
That is why the pharmaceutical industry, aware of this, has created drugs that induce deep relaxation and among these is midazolam.
In this article, we explain what midazolam is and in which situations it is used.
What is midazolam?
Midazolam is one of the synthetic drugs that belongs to the group of benzodiazepines, which is used very frequently in routine and emergency surgical procedures.
The active principle of this drug is midazolam hydrochloride , a drug that is used to induce sedation in addition to relieving anxiety and muscle tension before starting surgeries.
On the other hand, the commercial presentation of this medicine is in ampoules with a content of 5, 15 and 50 mg/ml of midazolam, respectively. For its administration and dose it will depend on the evaluation and medical criteria, emphasizing that its administration is intravenous .
Note: To evaluate the use of this drug in emergency situations, one of the criteria to use is the risk/benefit ratio for the patient .
What is midazolam used for?
As we have already mentioned, midazolam is used in surgical procedures for the following cases:
1. Sedation
Sedation is a procedure through which a state of calm, relaxation or drowsiness is induced in the patient , that is, a sedative effect. It is also called conscious sedation. Likewise, midazolam is used to accompany the induction of general anesthesia. (1)
To highlight: In scientific journals, articles are described showing the use of midazolam to induce conscious sedation in pediatric patients. (two)
2. Anesthesia
Anesthesia consists of a state of loss of sensitivity and consciousness, due to the administration of medications or other substances, preventing patients from feeling pain during surgery or other procedures. (3)
You should know: A scientific article describes the use of benzodiazepines such as midazolam, in anesthetic procedures. (4)
Midazolam Side Effects
The consumption of medications has its risks in the administration in some patients , so the use of midazolam can cause any of the following adverse reactions:
- Allergic reactions to the chemical components of midazolam.
- Increased effects of central nervous system depressant medications .
- respiratory depression.
- Prolonged use can cause withdrawal symptoms .
- Episodes of myasthenia gravis.
- Hypotension or bradycardia.
Important: If you notice the appearance of any of these symptoms or any other not included in the list, it is recommended to stop using it immediately .
Midazolam Contraindications
The use of some drugs is limited, due to the particular conditions of each patient . Being this way, the use of midazolam is contraindicated in any of the following cases:
- Sensitivity to benzodiazepines or any chemical component of midazolam.
- If there is any state of alcoholism in the patient.
- If you have frequently consumed prohibited substances such as drugs.
- If the patient is consuming other medications not informed to the doctor.
- During pregnancy or lactation without the corresponding medical supervision.
- Patients with renal failure must be monitored by medical personnel.
You should know: Before starting treatment with midazolam, the patient or their relatives must provide all important information to the doctor about their medical history.
Key Findings
- Midazolam is a synthetic medication that belongs to the group of benzodiazepines.
- Midazolam is used in routine and emergency surgical procedures in hospitals.
- This drug is used to induce sedation and also relieve anxiety and muscle tension before starting surgeries.
- Midazolam is a product with a very delicate use, so its administration and dosage must be carried out by specialized medical personnel .
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.