Nursing

Diazepam

Sedative

Receptor

Psychiatry

Anxiolytic

Anticonvulsant

Anesthesia

Palliative care

Sedation

Epilepsy

Lorazepam

Internal medicine

Pharmacology

Midazolam

Medicine

Benzodiazepine

Palliative Care and Social Practice

Midazolam is a commonly used benzodiazepine in palliative care and is considered one of the four essential drugs needed for the promotion of quality care in dying patients. Acting on the benzodiazepine receptor, it promotes the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid. Gamma-aminobutyric acid action promotes sedative, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant properties. Midazolam has a faster onset and shorter duration of action than other benzodiazepines such as diazepam and lorazepam lending itself to greater flexibility in dosing than other benzodiazepines. The kidneys excrete midazolam and its active metabolite. Metabolism occurs in the liver by the P450 system. This article examines the pharmacology, pharmacodynamics, and clinical uses of midazolam in palliative care.

Midazolam: an essential palliative care drug