Comparison of the i.v. administration of midazolam and diazepam as sedation during spinal anaesthesia.

Midazolam hydrochloride and diazepam in emulsion were compared as i.v. sedatives for spinal anaesthesia. Mean doses of midazolam 12 mg and diazepam 27 mg were required to induce sleep and provide good or adequate sedation throughout surgery of approximately 1 h duration. Neither drug caused loss of the airway or significant cardiorespiratory changes. The frequency of drowsiness after operation was greater following sedation with diazepam, but objective testing of recovery with the Trieger test showed no significant difference between the two drugs. The frequency of amnesia was greater following midazolam.