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Midazolam (By mouth)

Introduction:

Midazolam (MID-ay-zoe-lam)

Given before surgery or medical procedures to help you become relaxed or sleepy. This drug is a benzodiazepine.

Brand Name(s):

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to midazolam or to cherries. You should not use this medicine if you have acute narrow-angle glaucoma.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid

  • You will receive this medicine only in a hospital, clinic, or dentist's office. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy (such as sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, or sedatives).
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using midazolam, and for at least 24 hours after you stop using the medicine.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using erythromycin (Erythro-Tab®), itraconazole (Sporanox®), ketoconazole (Nizoral®), heart or blood pressure medicine (such as verapamil, Adalat®, Calan®, Cardizem®, Lotrel®, Plendil®, Procardia®, Tiazac®), or medicines to treat HIV/AIDS (Agenerase®, Crixivan®, Fortovase®, Invirase®, Norvir®, Sustiva®, Viracept®).
  • Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart disease, breathing problems, liver disease, or glaucoma.
  • This medicine may cause you to forget things for a few hours. This is normal.
  • This medicine will make you drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Coughing, shortness of breath, or shallow breathing
  • Uncontrollable muscle movements or twitching

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Changes in mood or behavior
  • Forgetfulness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Restlessness, trouble sleeping
  • Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010
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