Sedation, analgesia and paralysis
Midazolam (Versed) drip
Versed
Dosing
| Start | 1–2 mg/h (0.02–0.1 mg/kg/h) |
|---|---|
| Titrate | By 25–50%, with boluses |
| Maximum | Usually up to about 10 mg/h; status epilepticus uses more |
| Common bags | 100 mg in 100 mL (1 mg/mL); 50 mg in 50 mL (1 mg/mL) |
| Dose units | mg/h, mg/kg/h |
Line and administration
- Peripheral or central
Watch for
- Builds up in kidney failure, obesity and older adults
- Linked to delirium; not first choice for ICU sedation (PADIS)
Midazolam: full drug monographIndications, mechanism, pharmacokinetics, cautions and every dose the app lists.
In the one-pagers
- Sedation, Pain and Delirium ScalesPharmacology and ICU pitfalls: Midazolam: 0.02–0.1 mg/kg/h: Active metabolite builds up in renal failure
- Pediatric Assessment and EmergenciesFebrile seizures and dehydration: Over 5 min or seizing on arrival: airway, O₂, glucose, benzodiazepine (paramedic: midazolam 0.2 mg/kg IM/IN, max 10 mg, per protocol)
- Airway and RSIRSI drugs: Midazolam: 0.15–0.35 mg/kg: 1.5–2.5 min: Slow onset; hypotension
- End of Life, Brain Death and Organ DonationWithdrawing life support: Midazolam: 0.02–0.1 mg/kg: 1–5 mg/h
- Mental Health: Meds and CommunicationBenzodiazepines and sedative withdrawal: Midazolam: About 2–6 h; longer in obesity, AKI: CYP3A4 inhibitors prolong it
- Neuro: ICP and StrokeStatus epilepticus: No IV: Midazolam 10 mg IM
Practice Sedation, Pain and Delirium Scales questions free123 exam-style questions with rationales on the topic where midazolam comes up most. No account or download needed.
Other sedation, analgesia and paralysis
- Propofol
- Dexmedetomidine
- Fentanyl
- Cisatracurium
- Ketamine
- Hydromorphone
- Rocuronium
- Vecuronium
- Pentobarbital
- Remifentanil
Practice free in your browser3,800+ exam-style questions with rationales. No account, no ads. Also free on the App Store and Google Play.
For education and exam preparation only. Follow your institution’s protocols. Study aid: check every dose against the order, the bag label, your pump library and your institution's protocol.