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Midazolam (sedative)
Midazolam is a benzodiazepine that enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA at GABA-A receptors in the central nervous system, producing sedation and anxiolysis.
Midazolam enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA at GABA-A receptors in the central nervous system, producing sedation, anxiolysis, and amnesia. Used for Procedural sedation and anxiolysis, Preoperative anxiety and sedation, Acute anxiety and agitation.
At a glance
| Generic name | Midazolam (sedative) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Technische Universität Dresden |
| Drug class | Benzodiazepine |
| Target | GABA-A receptor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Neurology / Anesthesia |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Midazolam binds to GABA-A receptors and potentiates the action of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, increasing chloride ion influx and hyperpolarizing neuronal membranes. This results in depression of central nervous system activity, producing sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant effects. The drug is commonly used for procedural sedation, anesthesia induction, and acute anxiety management.
Approved indications
- Procedural sedation and anxiolysis
- Induction of general anesthesia
- Acute anxiety and agitation
- Seizure management
Common side effects
- Respiratory depression
- Drowsiness and sedation
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Amnesia
- Hypotension
- Paradoxical agitation
Key clinical trials
- Comparison of Two Intravenous Drug Combinations for Ambulatory Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (PHASE1)
- Characteristic Electroencephalogram of General Anesthesia
- Combination of Remimazolam and Propofol During Drug-induced Sleep Endoscopy (PHASE4)
- Efficacy of Dexmedetomidine Versus Midazolam Sedation on Extubation Time in Mechanically Ventilated Preterm Infants (PHASE3)
- The Effects of Sedatives on Tobacco Use Disorder Version 2 (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Clinical Outcomes of Sedation in Cataract Surgery Performed Under Topical Anesthesia (NA)
- Pharmacokinetics of Sedatives and Analgesics During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Support
- Adjuvant Continuous Infusion of Nefopam Versus Standard of Care in Mechanically Ventilated Critically Ill Patients: Randomized Double-blind Controlled Study (PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Midazolam (sedative) CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Midazolam (sedative) updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Technische Universität Dresden portfolio CI