Abstract
Sedation is sometimes required for cardiovascular diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Midazolam may be proposed in these situations because of its duration of action and because of its moderate haemodynamic effects. However, the use of midazolam implies that the standards of safety required for all anaesthetic techniques have been applied. The changes in haemodynamic data induced by the administration of midazolam must be taken into account in interpretation of the catheterisation report. At the end of investigation, flumazenil can be administered safely to reverse residual sedative effects of midazolam but its use does not exempt from normal monitoring during the recovery period.