Differential pharmacology of drugs used for intravenous pre-medication.

The differential effects of drugs used for intravenous pre-medication are reviewed using the results of controlled clinical trials in dental outpatients. The evaluation of clinical success requires experimental control of factors which can confound both the therapeutic and evaluation processes. The evaluation of drugs which are given primarily to alleviate anxiety requires that this effect be assessed by the patient's self-report rather than by the clinician's estimate of drug effect based on external manifestations. The results of the studies reviewed suggest that intravenous diazepam accomplishes the therapeutic objectives of anxiety relief, decreased pain perception, and amnesia. The addition of a narcotic, while reducing the diazepam dose, does not result in any greater effect, but does improve patient cooperation. It is concluded that diazepam, administered to clinical end-point, accomplishes most of the goals of intravenous pre-medication with minimal potential for adverse effects. The use of additional agents may improve patient cooperation, but this possible advantage must be weighed against the potential for increased systemic effects.