Comparison of quazepam, flunitrazepam and placebo as single-dose hypnotics before surgery

The hypnotic effect and tolerance of quazepam (Sch 16134) 15 and 30 mg, flunitrazepam 1 and 2 mg and placebo were evaluated in a one-night, randomized, double-blind, parallel group study of 100 hospitalized patients, who were to undergo a planned operation on the following day. All active drugs were rated as superior to placebo by the physician. Subjectively, quazepam 30 mg and flunitrazepam 1 and 2 mg were superior to placebo. Hangover effects were not distinguishable from placebo. Vigilance and ataxia tests were not altered by any of the drugs.