Lorazepam, hyoscine and atropine as i.v. surgical premedicants

Lorazepam 2 and 4 mg alone and in combination with atropine 0.4 mg and hyoscine 0.4 mg were studied as i.v. surgical premedicants in 150 patients. Relief of anxiety, sedation, patient acceptance, lack of recall and side-effects were evaluated. Hyoscine was found to improve the relief of anxiety and sedation associated with lorazepam, but did not significantly increase lack of recall or patient acceptance. The addition of atropine to lorazepam did not significantly alter its effects. A high frequency of agitation and restlessness in patients receiving lorazepam and hyoscine make this combination undesirable for surgical premedication.