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Acute tolerance from benzodiazepine night sedation
1Wellington Clinical School of Medicine, Wellington Hospital, New Zealand.
Anaesthesia
|November 1, 1991
Summary
Benzodiazepine night sedation does not appear to cause acute tolerance to morning sedation. This study found no significant differences in sedation levels after morning benzodiazepine administration, regardless of prior night sedation.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Benzodiazepines are commonly used for sedation.
- The potential for acute tolerance to benzodiazepine sedation requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that night-time benzodiazepine administration leads to acute tolerance of morning benzodiazepine sedation.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized, crossover study involving six volunteers.
- Administration of midazolam, flunitrazepam, or placebo for night sedation.
- Assessment of morning sedation using observer scales and psychomotor tests after intravenous midazolam.
Main Results:
- A trend suggested less sedation after midazolam night sedation and more after placebo, with flunitrazepam intermediate.
- No statistically significant differences in sedation levels were observed between the three treatment groups.
Conclusions:
- Single-use benzodiazepine night sedation does not significantly influence the required dose for morning intravenous sedation.
- Acute tolerance to benzodiazepine sedation from prior night administration is unlikely to be clinically significant.