Comparison of dexmedetomidine, midazolam, and propofol as an optimal sedative for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Abstract Context: Midazolam and propofol are effective sedatives for use in upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE); however, their utility is limited when used alone. In this regard, dexmedetomidine seems to be a promising sedative. Aims: The aim was to compare the hemodynamic effects and sedation efficacy of these drugs in patients undergoing elective diagnostic UGIE. Settings and Design: Randomized control double-blind study was conducted at a teaching hospital. Subjects and Methods: Patients belonging to ASA Grade I or II, undergoing diagnostic elective UGIE were enrolled in the study and randomized into three groups; Group I received midazolam infusion, Group II received propofol infusion and Group III received dexmedetomidine infusion. Hemodynamic parameters and adverse events were recorded during the procedure (intra-operative period [IOP]). Both patient and endoscopist satisfaction were rated on visual analog scale (0 = no pain/least difficulty to 10 = worst pain/maximum difficulty). Recovery was recorded as time to achieve modified Aldrete score of 10/10. Statistical Analysis: Parametric test analysis of variance was applied to compare the means of three groups of continuous data. Results: Ninety patients were analyzed. Mean arterial pressure was significantly lower in the propofol group at IOP2, IOP4, IOP8, and IOP10 compared with dexmedetomidine and midazolam group. The endoscopist satisfaction level was significantly higher in dexmedetomidine group as compared to propofol and midazolam (60%, 56.7%, 13.3%; P < 0.001). Significantly faster recovery was observed in dexmedetomidine group compared to midazolam and propofol group (7.7 ± 3.9, 18.3 ± 3.8, 12.7 ± 2.9 min; P = 0.001). Conclusions: Use of dexmedetomidine was associated with greater hemodynamic stability and faster recovery when compared to propofol and midazolam.