Midazolam

Midazolam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen) that helps you relax before minor surgery, dental work, or other medical procedures.

Midazolam may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Midazolam is typically given as a single dose right before your surgery or procedure.

Midazolam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. Midazolam should only be used in a hospital, dentist office, or other clinic setting where any serious side effects can be quickly treated.

After you take midazolam, you will be monitored closely to ensure the medicine is working and does not cause harmful side effects.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be monitored closely while you are in surgery.

Midazolam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. Midazolam is given in a hospital, dentist office, or other clinic setting where your vital signs can be monitored closely.

You should not use midazolam if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• narrow-angle glaucoma;
• untreated or uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma; or
• an allergy to cherries.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• glaucoma;
• breathing problems; or
• congestive heart failure.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Midazolam can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication, alcohol, or other drugs that can slow your breathing. Your caregivers will watch you for symptoms such as weak or shallow breathing.

Tell your medical caregivers right away if you have:

• cough, wheezing, trouble breathing;
• slow heart rate;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• tremors; or
• confusion, agitation, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior.

Drowsiness or dizziness may last longer in older adults. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury.

Common side effects of midazolam may include:

• amnesia or forgetfulness after your procedure;
• drowsiness, dizziness;
• nausea, vomiting; or
• blurred vision.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

In a medical setting, it is unlikely that you will miss a dose.

In a medical setting, an overdose will be treated quickly.

Do not drink alcohol shortly after taking midazolam. Midazolam can increase the effects of alcohol, which could be dangerous.

Grapefruit may interact with midazolam and cause side effects. Avoid consuming grapefruit products for a short time after taking midazolam.

You may feel drowsy for 24 to 48 hours after the injection. Avoid driving or doing hazardous activities until the effects of midazolam have completely worn off. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries.

Shortly after you receive midazolam, using other drugs that make you sleepy or slow your breathing can lead to serious side effects or death. Check with your doctor before taking opioid medication, a sleeping pill, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures.

Other drugs may impact midazolam, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using.