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Midazolam increases bite force during intravenous sedation
Ming-Yu Huang1, Nobuyuki Matsuura, Yuzuru Kaneko
1Department of Dental Anesthesiology, Tokyo Dental College, Chiba, Japan.
Summary
Midazolam sedation decreased grip strength but unexpectedly increased bite force in healthy volunteers. This enhanced bite force persisted even after flumazenil reversal, suggesting complex effects on muscle power.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Pharmacology
- Neuromuscular Physiology
Background:
- Midazolam is commonly used for moderate sedation.
- Its effects on vital functions and recovery are well-documented.
- However, its impact on muscle power during sedation remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of midazolam on muscle power during moderate sedation.
- To assess changes in grip strength and bite force.
Main Methods:
- 20 healthy male volunteers participated in a randomized crossover study.
- Midazolam (0.05 mg/kg) was administered, followed by flumazenil for reversal.
- Muscle power was measured using grip strength and bite force.
- Vital signs, sedation levels, and cognitive function were also monitored.
Main Results:
- Midazolam decreased grip strength and cognitive function (Stroop test).
- Bite force significantly increased immediately after midazolam administration.
- This increase in bite force persisted even after flumazenil administration.
Conclusions:
- Midazolam's sedative effects are associated with decreased grip strength.
- Paradoxically, midazolam increased bite force, an effect not fully explained by its muscle-relaxant properties.
- The persistent increase in bite force after flumazenil suggests complex central or peripheral mechanisms involved.
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