Midazolam (Versed®)
By: Dr. Dawn Ruben

Midazolam Hydrochloride injectable formulation.

Overview

Midazolam is a sedative that depresses the brain. Exactly how midazolam works is uncertain but it is thought to reduce serotonin levels and reduce acetylcholine levels.

Midazolam belongs to the general class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. Related drugs include diazepam, clonazepam, clorazepate and alprazolam.

Midazolam is a controlled substance and can only be prescribed by a veterinarian.

Midazolam is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.

This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an extra-label drug.

Brand Names and Other Names

This drug is registered for use in humans only.

Human formulations: Versed® (Roche)

Veterinary formulations: None

Uses of Midazolam

In animals, midazolam is given as a sedative. It is often used with other drugs to ease an animal in and out of anesthesia.

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, midazolam can cause side effects in some animals.

Midazolam should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.

Midazolam can cause sedation and disorientation in animals so they may become uncoordinated and weak.

Midazolam may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with midazolam. Such drugs include cimetidine, propranolol, narcotics, barbiturates, digoxin and certain antibiotics.

In some animals, however, midazolam causes the paradoxical drug reaction of excitement.

Midazolam is a controlled drug because it has high abuse potential in people. This drug, if prescribed for animals, should be carefully monitored and kept in a secure location.

How Midazolam Is Supplied

Midazolam is available in 1 mg/ml and 5 mg/ml injectable form.

Dosing Information

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.

The typical dose administered to animals is 0.03 to 0.1 mg per pound (0.07 to 0.2 mg/kg) intramuscular or intravenous.

The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Midazolam is typically administered in a hospital setting and is rarely, if ever, prescribed for use at home.

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