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Compare Midazolam vs. Propofol

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Midazolam (Seizalam, Versed) and Propofol (Diprivan) are both used for sedation, but they have some key differences. Midazolam is a benzodiazepine that can be given as an injection or oral syrup. It is used for sedation before medical procedures and for treating long-lasting seizures. Propofol is a sedative used to put people to sleep during surgery or other medical procedures and is only available as an injection. Unlike Midazolam, Propofol is not a controlled medication and works by binding to a specific protein in the brain called the GABA receptor. Midazolam can cause severe breathing problems and memory issues, while Propofol can lead to low blood pressure and a rare condition called propofol infusion syndrome (PRIS). Both medications require administration by a healthcare provider in a monitored setting.

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