Panic attacks during MR imaging: treatment with i.v. diazepam.

This study includes 3000 patients undergoing MR imaging, all of them conscious, with no history of alcoholism, drug addiction, heart disease, or schizophrenia. During the course of the MR study, panic attacks occurred in 46 subjects, which prevented continuation of the examination. An IV bolus injection of diazepam was administered, which enabled completion of the examination in all 46 cases. The expected effects of a high blood level of diazepam, such as somnolence, slow reactions, overrelaxation, and inhibition of breathing, were not observed. The panic attacks disappeared rapidly after the injection. The patients agreed to a repeat MR examination under similar conditions, if necessary.