Conscious sedation: Pharmacology.
Choosing the IV drug

BASIC AND ADVANCED

The indications and contraindications for conscious sedation for dental procedures using benzodiazepines, propofol, and opioids in young people and adults are as follows:

Benzodiazepines:

Indications:

• Anxiety or fear associated with dental procedures
• Patient management during long or complex procedures
• Sedation for patients with special needs or medical conditions

Contraindications:

• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines
• Severe respiratory depression or obstructive sleep apnoea
• Glaucoma
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants

Propofol:

Indications:

• Sedation for long or complex dental procedures
• Patient management during dental procedures
• Sedation for patients with special needs or medical conditions

Contraindications:

• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to propofol
• Severe hypotension or cardiac failure
• Severe respiratory depression or obstructive sleep apnoea
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants

Opioids:

Indications:

• Management of moderate to severe pain associated with dental procedures
• Management of acute or chronic dental pain

Contraindications:

• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to opioids
• Respiratory depression or obstructive sleep apnoea
• Head injury or increased intracranial pressure
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants