Pharmacology Notes

Benzodiazepines are the most commonly prescribed anxiolytic and sedative drugs because of their efficiency and their relatively low incidence of adverse effects.

Diazepam is a widely used sedative. It is available in tablets and in liquid form. Diazepam is reliably absorbed from the gut, with its effect becoming apparent after about 30 minutes. The optimum clinical effect is reached after one hour. A single oral dose of 10 mg for adults can be given one hour before the dental appointment.