Comparison of flunitrazepam and diazepam for oral premedication in older children.

A double-blind trial was conducted of two benzodiazepines, flunitrazepam and diazepam, given orally to 142 children (30 kg in weight or heavier) undergoing routine surgery. Flunitrazepam was associated with greater sedation before operation and less vomiting after operation than diazepam. Flunitrazepam caused a greater frequency of amnesia for the periods of induction and immediately after operation. Plasma concentrations were measured in 65 children and were found to be significantly greater in those children having amnesia for the induction period in both flunitrazepam and diazepam groups. In the diazepam group, plasma concentrations were significantly smaller in those who vomited than in those who did not vomit.