Infusion of midazolam in paediatric patients after cardiac surgery.

Midazolam was given, by infusion, for the sedation of 10 children receiving intensive care after cardiac surgery. Plasma concentrations greater than 250 ng ml-1 were required for adequate sedation. Midazolam did not cumulate in eight of the 10 children, and these patients excreted the drug in a fashion similar to that by adults. However, midazolam did accumulate in two children, one with profound hepatic disturbance. In one of these patients recovery was slow following cessation of the infusion.