Presentation
- 5 mg in 1 mL glass ampoule
- 15 mg in 3 mL glass ampoule
Pharmacology
Short acting CNS depressant
Actions:
- Anxiolytic
- Sedative
- Anti-convulsant
Metabolism
In the liver; excreted by the kidneys
- Status epilepticus
- Sedation to maintain intubation
- Sedation to facilitate intubation (RSI – modified or Paediatric IFS)
- Sedation to facilitate synchronised cardioversion
- Sedation to facilitate transthoracic pacing
- Sedation in the agitated patient (including patients under the Mental Health Act 2014)
- Sedation in psychostimulant OD
- Known hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines
- Elderly / frail patients
- Patients with cardiovascular disease
- Patients on monoamine oxidase inhibitors
- Higher doses may be required for patients on beta blockers
Route of administration
- IM
- IV
- IV infusion
- Depressed level of consciousness
- Respiratory depression
- Loss of airway control
- Hypotension
Special Notes
IM Effects
Onset: 3 – 5 minutes
Peak: 15 minutes
Duration: 30 minutes
IV Effects
Onset: 1 – 3 minutes
Peak: 10 minutes
Duration: 20 minutes