The use of neurolept analgesia for gastro-intestinal endoscopy.

A prospective double-blind study of the effects of sedation in 142 patients undergoing gastro-intestinal endoscopy was performed. Four regimens were studied (neurolept analgesia with and without topical anaesthesia, and anticholinergic and topical anaesthesia, with and without diazepam). Droperidol and fentanyl without topical anaesthesia yielded the best results as far as tolerance and side-effects were concerned. It is suggested that this form of neurolept analgesia be used for gastro-intestinal endoscopy.