Versed ( Midazoliam )

by Kelly Connell

What is Versed Used to Treat?

Versed® is the brand name for the drug Midazolam. Versed is used to treat insomnia, seizures however, it’s most common use is for inducing sedation and amnesia during medical procedures and for sedation of intensive care patients. Versed is also used in end of life care to calm patients anxiety and restlessness. In combination with other anti psychotic drugs, Versed is also used to treat schizophrenia when it is accompanied by aggressive behavior.

How Does Versed Work?

Versed is a fast acting but short lasting benzodiazepine that results in anti-convulsant, sedation, hypnotic, muscle relaxation, anxiolytic, and anterograde amnesia properties. Versed can be administered intravenously, subcutaneously, intra-nasally, orally or buccally

What are the Side Effects of Versed?

Some people who use Versed may experience side effects. Side effects that people who take Versed should be aware of include:

• Worsening depression
• Hangover effects such as impaired cognitive and motor function and sleepiness that persist into the next day, particularly when Versed is taken at night
• Respiratory depression
• Hypotension
• Disinhibition
• Paradoxical behavior including anxiety, aggressive or violent behavior, uncontrollable crying, involuntary movements and verbalization.
• Amnesia

Precautions/Interactions

When taken during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, babies born to mothers who take Versed have a high risk for being born with benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome that can last for weeks or months after birth. It is recommended that women who are pregnant, considering pregnancy or breastfeeding not take Versed.

The elderly also have special risks if they take Versed because of slower metabolic rates. This makes them more prone to adverse effects like drowsiness and confusion and increases their risk for falls.

In addition to the elderly and pregnant women, Versed is contraindicated for the following populations:

• Children
• People who are alcohol or drug dependent
• People with a history of liver or kidney problems
• People with co-morbid psychiatric disorders
• People who take Versed have a risk for tolerance, where more of the drug is needed to produce the same effects and dependence where withdrawal is experienced upon stopping use. Patient’s taking Versed should not stop taking it suddenly or without a health care provider’s supervision. Generally, use should be tapered off to guard against withdrawal.
• Versed is known to have interaction with grapefruit juice as well as other medications including HIV protease inhibitors. Anyone taking Versed should be careful to disclose a full list of current medications to their health care provider to avoid any negative interactions.
• For more information about Versed and to help determine if Versed is the best medication for you, please consult with your health care provider.

Related

Benzodiazepines