Intravenous anaesthetic-hypnotic drugs Propofol Pentothal ...

25/11/2010
Flumazenil (1)
Flumazenil is a competitive antagonist t for
benzodiazepine receptors in the CNS.
a. Reversal of benzodiazepine-induced sedative
effects occurs within 2 minutes; peak effects at
app. 10 minutes.
b. Flumazenil is shorter acting than the
benzodiazepines it is used to antagonize.
Repeated administration may be necessary due to
its short duration of action.
Flumazenil (2)
c. Metabolized to inactive metabolites in the liver.
d. Dose: 0.3 mg IV every 30 to 60 seconds
(to a max. dose of 5 mg).
e. Flumazenil is contraindicated in patients with
tricyclic antidepressant overdose and patients
receiving benzodiazepines for control of seizures or
elevated intracranial pressure. Use cautiously in
patients who have had long-term treatment with
benzodiazepines because acute withdrawal may
be precipitated.
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