Midazolam syrup as a premedication to reduce the discomfort associated with pediatric intravenous catheter insertion.

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluated midazolam syrup for reducing discomfort from intravenous placement in children 9 months to 6 years. Parents and observers rated the child's discomfort by using visual analogue scales. Median parents' pain scores were significantly lower in the midazolam than the placebo group (P =.002). Midazolam effectively reduces discomfort associated with intravenous insertion.