Details

Midazolam is a benzodiazepine sedative. Midazolam is used to sedate a person who is having a minor surgery, dental work, or other medical procedure. Taking midazolam with other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can cause dangerous or life-threatening side effects. Do not drink alcohol shortly after taking midazolam. To make sure midazolam is safe for you tell your doctor if you have open-angle glaucoma asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems kidney or liver disease congestive heart failure a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behaviour or a history of drug or alcohol addiction. Midazolam should not be used in pregnancy. The sedative effects of midazolam may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly patients who take benzodiazepines.

Typical Uses

Midazolam is used in children before a procedure or anaesthesia to cause drowsiness, decrease anxiety, and cause forgetfulness of the surgery or procedure. It should be used while the child is under the care of a health professional. It is not for home or long-term use. Midazolam belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines, which produce a calming effect on the brain and nerves (central nervous system). It is thought to work by increasing the effect of a certain natural chemical (GABA) in the brain. This drug may also be used short-term for sleep problems (e.g., trouble sleeping, "night terrors").

Side Effects

Common midazolam side effects may include cough, wheezing, trouble breathing, weak or shallow breathing slow heart rate a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out agitation, hostility or confusion, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behaviour.

Drug Interactions

• Midazolam+propoxyphene- Using propoxyphene together with midazolam may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Some people, especially the elderly, may also experience impairment in thinking, judgment, and motor coordination. You should take propoxyphene exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Midazolam+atazanavir- Using midazolam together with atazanavir is not recommended. Combining these medications may significantly increase the blood levels and effects of midazolam, which can lead to increased or prolonged drowsiness and breathing difficulties. Death may occur as a result of excessive midazolam levels.
• Midazolam+boceprevir- Using midazolam together with boceprevir is not recommended. Combining these medications may significantly increase the blood levels and effects of midazolam, which can lead to increased or prolonged drowsiness and breathing difficulties. Death may occur as a result of excessive midazolam levels.
• Midazolam+droperidol- Using droperidol together with midazolam can increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious and potentially life-threatening, although it is a relatively rare side effect. You may be more susceptible if you have a heart condition called congenital long QT syndrome, other cardiac diseases, conduction abnormalities, or electrolyte disturbances.

Mechanism of action

Midazolam belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepine. It is a short-acting, central nervous system depressant that slows brain activity, causes relaxation and induces sleep. It thus, induces drowsiness, sleepiness, relives anxiety, relaxes muscles, and prevents memory of events such as surgeries.

Pregnancy Category : D