“Oral Midazolam for Premedication in Children Undergoing Various Elective Surgical procedures”

This study was done to compare oral midazolam 0.5 mg/kg versus 0.75 mg/kg as a premedication in children with regard to sedation and anxiolysis.

Study was done in 90 children (ASA I & II), aged 4 to 8 years who were scheduled for various elective surgeries. Patients were randomly divided into three groups (No=30 each). Group A was control and Group B and C received an oral administration of 0.5mg/kg, 0.75mg/kg respectively, of injectable midazolam (Preservative free) mixed with orange syrup, 45 minutes before surgery.

The acceptance of drug was very good. All children in Group A (without premedication) were extremely anxious and crying or thrashing while in Group B and C, 80% and 90% patients respectively were calm and sleepy at the time of separation from parents, on arrival at OR and at the time of venipuncture and induction of anesthesia. Midazolam did not impact the overall recovery time in children.

A dose of 0.75mg/kg of injectable midazolam given orally as premedication for children undergoing various elective surgical procedures offers effective sedation and better emotional control facilitating better separation and co-operation during venipuncture and induction of anesthesia.