Comparison of the efficacy of midazolam and dexmedetomidine in quality of sedation in mechanically-ventilated patients admitted to intensive care unit

Abstract

Background: Caring for patients with respiratory support is one of the important tasks of intensive care units; sedation of patient during ventilation is important. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of midazolam and dexmedetomidine on the sedation quality of patients undergoing mechanical ventilation in intensive care unit. Methods: This study was performed on 100 patients requiring mechanical ventilation in intensive care unit. Patients were randomly assigned into two equal groups of midazolam and dexmedetomidine; signs and complications were recorded in patients. Chi-square and ANOVA tests were used to compare the data. Findings: Dexmedetomidine, like midazolam, had a good sedation effect. The duration of hospitalization in intensive care unit (9.58 vs. 12.36 days, P = 0.011), and the need for ventilation (3.96 vs. 6.74 days, P < 0.001) were significantly lower in dexmedetomidine group, with no serious complications and hemodynamic changes. Conclusion: According to the efficacy of both drugs, depending on the type of patient and its conditions (sensitivity to a particular type of drug), both drugs can be used to sedate patients undergoing mechanical ventilation. © 2018, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.