The present work was devoted to the evaluation of midazolam efficiency in basal sedation prior to endoscopy. 56 children aged 4-13 years were included in the study. They received mean dose of 0.37 mg/kg b.m. oral Dormicum (Roche). In order to assess midazolam efficiency, the following components were taken into account: the presence of fear in children when separating with their parents and during endoscopy, patient's co-operation during endoscopy and the occurrence of anterograde amnesia. We also analysed physiological parameters such as pulse, respiratory rate and arterial blood pressure before and during endoscopy. Children were divided into three groups with respect to sedation effectiveness: group I - good effect of sedation, group II- partial sedation, group III - unsatisfactory sedation. Group I included 32 children (57.2%), group II - 11 (19.6%) and group III - 13 (23.2%). We compared doses of the drug in particular groups of children. They proved statistically significantly lower in group III in relation to groups I and II. On the basis of our study, it may be claimed that the use of Dormicum prior to endoscopy reduces the feeling of fear, ensures mental comfort both to the patient and physician as well as induces anterograde amnesia. Oral administration of Dormicum in the optimal dose of 0.4 mg/kg b.m. allows to achieve basic objectives of sedation.

Keywords: children, sedation, Midazolam