Sedation for gastroscopy: a comparison between midazolam and midazolam with nalbuphine

Forty patients received either midazolam or midazolam with nalbuphine in a double-blind randomised study of sedation for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. There were less retching, gagging and salivation in the combination group compared to midazolam alone. They were also more cooperative. These resulted in greater ease of insertion of the gastroscope. There was no significant difference in the degree of amnesia in both groups. A significant decrease in oxygen saturation was noted in both groups during the procedure. Monitoring with a pulse oximeter is recommended when sedation is administered during gastroscopy.