Let's learn about Midazolam Injection - the 'sleeping pill' given before surgery

Let's learn about Midazolam Injection - the 'sleeping pill' given before surgery

Have you ever had to have an operation? Or something like an endoscopy? Then the doctors give you an injection to reduce your fear and anxiety and make you feel a little sleepy, right? Midazolam is a common drug used at times like these. It is very important to know exactly what this is. So let's talk about it today.

Simply put, what is Midazolam?

Midazolam is a drug that calms your nervous system, reduces anxiety, and makes you sleepy. It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It is usually given as an injection. It is used to keep a patient comfortable, especially before or during a medical procedure.

The most important thing is that this is a medicine that is only given under medical supervision in a hospital or clinic. It is not a medicine that can be used at home.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before giving you the Midazolam injection, your doctor will ask you some questions. But in addition to all of that, if you have any of the following conditions, you should definitely tell your doctor . This is very important for your safety.

Situation you need to report A simple explanation
Respiratory diseases If you have a lung or breathing disease such as COPD, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema .
Glaucoma If you have glaucoma, a condition where the pressure in your eyes increases.
Kidney or heart disease If you have a condition such as kidney failure or heart failure.
Dehydration If the body lacks water and becomes dehydrated.
Drug addiction If you have previously been addicted to drugs or alcohol or if you currently have that problem.
Pregnancy or breastfeeding If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Allergies If you have an allergy to midazolam, other benzodiazepines, any food, or any other medicine.

What if I take too much medicine?

Since this is given in a hospital, the chances of this happening are very low. However, if you feel that the dose of the medicine has been increased in any way, you should inform the medical staff immediately. Alternatively, you can call the National Poison Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital . It is also essential to go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of a hospital immediately.

Other drugs that may interact with Midazolam

It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, as some medications can interact with Midazolam and cause dangerous conditions.

Drugs that should never be taken with Midazolam

  • Some opioid medications for cough
  • Medicines such as Ketoconazole and Itraconazole for fungal infections
  • Specific drugs such as Boceprevir, Delavirdine, Idelalisib, Lonafarnib, Sodium oxybate, Telaprevir

Other drugs that may interact with Midazolam

  • Alcohol
  • Types of antihistamines for allergies, coughs, and colds
  • Medication for anxiety or sleep
  • Medications for depression (e.g. amitriptyline, fluoxetine)
  • Medications for high blood pressure or heart disease
  • Types of antibiotics (e.g. clarithromycin, erythromycin)
  • Medications for seizures
  • Painkillers (especially opioids)
  • General anesthetics

This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements you take. Don't forget to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.

Things to be careful about after taking the medicine

  • Driving and operating machinery: Your balance, reaction time, and decision-making ability may be impaired after taking this medication. Therefore , avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until the effects of the medication have completely worn off.
  • Dizziness: Don't get up suddenly while the medicine is taking effect. Sit down slowly and stand up slowly. Otherwise, you may feel dizzy and fall.
  • Alcohol: Drinking alcohol after taking Midazolam is very dangerous . It can increase side effects and even cause breathing to stop.
  • Behavioral changes: Sometimes you or your family may notice changes in your behavior. For example, you may be more depressed than before, have thoughts of harming yourself, become more anxious, or lose your memory. If you notice any of these, tell your doctor right away.

What are the most common side effects?

Like any medicine, Midazolam can cause side effects. Some of them are serious, while others are mild.

If you have these symptoms, tell your doctor or nurse immediately.
Allergic reactions Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
Central nervous system depression (CNS depression) Slow or shallow breathing, difficulty breathing, excessive sleepiness, confusion.
Low blood pressure Dizziness, blurred vision, fainting.
Tremor Trembling of the limbs or body.
These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor.
Headache, nausea, vomiting These often disappear as the medication wears off.
Hiccups It is a normal condition that can occur in some people.
Restlessness Some people may feel a little restless instead of sleepy.

Take-Home Message

  • Midazolam is a medicine used to reduce anxiety and induce sleep before surgery or medical tests.
  • Before taking this medicine, be sure to tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all other medications you are taking.
  • This is a medication that is only given in a hospital and is not prescribed for home use.
  • After taking the medicine, avoid driving, operating machinery, and drinking alcohol completely until the effects wear off.
  • If you notice anything like difficulty breathing, excessive drowsiness, allergic reactions, or severe changes in behavior, seek medical advice immediately.

Midazolam Sinhala, Midazolam injection, sleeping pill, pre-surgery medication, medical tests, drug side effects, Benzodiazepine Sinhala

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