Comparison of induction and recovery characteristics of intravenous midazolam and thiopentone in paediatric halothane general anaesthesia

Fifty children were randomized for induction with 0.3 mg kg(-1) midazolam or 5 mg kg(-1) thiopentone. Efficacy, safety, recovery time, amnesic effect, tolerability and recovery characteristics were compared. Midazolam required longer for induction and recovery from anaesthesia. The safety profile was similar with both drugs.Midazolam is efficacious and safe for the induction of anaesthesia in children. Its action is comparable with thiopentone and may be an alternative to it.