Comparison between diazepam and midazolam as a sedative during colonoscopy

In the present study, intravenous diazepam 10 mg and midazolam 5 mg were compared in two groups each of 15 patients undergoing colonoscopic examination. Midazolam was found to be more potent than diazepam. Its onset of action was faster than diazepam. It provided a greater degree of sedation, more intense amnesia, better endoscopic conditions and no pain on injection. The cardiovascular, respiratory blood gas and hepatic effects of both drugs caused no significant changes. Recovery time was more prolonged after midazolam than diazepam