Benzodiazepine used for sedation, induction of anaesthesia and premedication.
The BNF advises it should be given for sedation by slow IV injection at a rate of 2mg/minute 5-10 minutes pre-procedure.
Initial dose for an adult is 2 - 2.5mg, however in the elderly this should be reduced to 0.5 to 1.0mg. Total max dose adult=7.5mg, elderly =3.5mg.
Patients who are breast feeding should avoid for 24 hours after receiving Midazolam.
Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist and can be used for reversal of benzodiazepines however it is widely regarding as a hazardous drug in its own right with risk of resedation and seizures. As a result the management of benzodiazepine overdose is often supportive.