DIAZEPAM AS A PRE-OPERATIVE TRANQUILLIZER IN NEUROANAESTHESIA: A PRELIMINARY NOTE

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Abstract
Diazepam, a new drug with central sedative and muscle-relaxant effects, has been used in 40 neurosurgical patients as a pre-operative tranquillizer associated with belladonna drugs. Two other types of premedication, belladonna drugs without sedatives, and hydroxyzine plus belladonna drugs, were administered to a further 78 similar cases. A double blind technique was followed. A simple scoring system based on the observation of the patient's behaviour and on answers to standardized questions and stimuli has been used. Results were statistically analyzed. Diazepam had a good tranquillizing effect and was devoid of undesirable hypnotic or autonomic side effects. It appeared to be at least as safe as simple belladonna drugs: its anxiolytic and tranquillizing effects were found to be stronger and more reliable than the ataractic action of hydroxyzine.

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