section name header

Pronunciation

rem-ih-MAZ-oh-lam

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: sedative/hypnotics

Pharmacologic Classification: benzodiazepines

Indications

REMS


Action

  • Binds to GABAA receptors in brain, which decreases the firing rate of neurons and produces an inhibitory response.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Rapid onset/offset of sedation during/after procedure.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: IV administration results in complete bioavailability.

Distribution: Well distributed to extravascular tissues.

Metabolism/Excretion: Metabolized by tissue esterases to inactive metabolite, which then undergoes hydroxylation and glucuronidation. Primarily excreted in urine as inactive metabolite.

Half-Life: 37–53 min.

Time/Action Profile

(sedation)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
IVrapid3–3.5 min11–14 min



Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: bradycardia, hypertension, hypotension, tachycardia

GI: nausea

Neuro: headache

Resp: respiratory depression, tachypnea

Misc: HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS (INCLUDING ANAPHYLAXIS), fever, physical dependence

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage

Availability

Assessment

Toxicity and Overdose:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Byfavo

Contr. Subst. Schedule

Schedule IV (C-IV)