Safety and efficacy of remimazolam in high risk colonoscopy: A randomized trial

Comparison of remimazolam and midazolam for sedation during colonoscopy in Japanese patients: A propensity score matching analysis

Objectives

To compare the efficacy and safety of sedation with midazolam and remimazolam for colorectal endoscopy.

Methods

This single-center, two-arm, post-hoc analysis of the REM-IICTJP01 study investigated the efficacy and safety of remimazolam for gastrointestinal endoscopic sedation. We enrolled 40 and 208 patients who underwent colonoscopy under remimazolam and midazolam sedation, respectively, during the same period. The primary outcome was the time from the end of the colonoscopy until discharge. The secondary outcomes included the time from the end of the colonoscopy until awakening, dosage, and adverse events. Propensity score matching was employed to eliminate the effect of confounding factors.

Results

Thirty-seven patients in each group were matched. After propensity matching, the time to awakening after colonoscopy was 28.0 (13.0-37.0) min in the midazolam group and 0 (0-0) min in the remimazolam group; moreover, the time till discharge was 40.0 (35.0-46.5) min in the midazolam group and 0 (0-5.0) min in the remimazolam group, both of which were significantly shorter in the remimazolam group (p < 0.01). The number of additional doses was 0 (0-0) and 2 (1-3) in the midazolam and remimazolam groups, respectively. The total dose was 2.0 (2.0-3.5) and 6.0 (5.0-7.0) mg in the midazolam and remimazolam groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Remimazolam yielded significantly faster times to awakening and discharge safely compared to midazolam.

Remimazolam

Remimazolam is a new reversible γ-aminobutyric acid type A agonist benzodiazepine that displays a fast onset of action, short recovery time with a safe cardiopulmonary profile and favorable pharmacokinetics in comparison with other intravenous sedatives.

Efficacy and safety of remimazolam tosilate in anesthesia for short otolaryngology surgery

BACKGROUND

Remimazolam tosilate represents the novel ultrashort-acting benzodiazepine drug. This work focused on exploring whether remimazolam tosilate was effective and safe in anesthesia for short otolaryngology surgery in adults, and optimize its medication regimen, thus providing a theoretical basis for its widespread clinical application.

METHODS

The present unicentric, double-blind, randomized controlled study enrolled altogether 85 otolaryngology surgery patients aged 18-60 years, and they were divided as remimazolam (RM, 42 cases) or midazolam (MD, 43 cases) group. Efficacy outcomes included successful sedation time, sedation effect (Modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation (MOAA/S) score), bispectral index values (BIS), and postoperative recovery. The safety outcomes were patient vital signs at each time point (before induction (T0), 2 min and 5 min after trial drug treatment (T1 and T2 separately), during successful intubation (T3), at the end of surgery (T4), during extubation (T5), and at the time of exiting the room (T6)), any adverse reactions (AEs) during perioperative period, and patient satisfaction with anesthesia experience.

RESULTS

Demographics were not significantly different in both groups (P > 0.05). RM group had significantly decreased successful sedation time relative to MD group (P < 0.05), while increased successful sedation rate (100%) relative to MD group (90.70%, P = 0.116). RM group showed decreased MOAA/S score and BIS value compared with MD group at T1 and T2 (P < 0.05). The spontaneous respiration recovery time and extubation time were not significantly different in both groups (P > 0.05), but RM group exhibited decreased discharge time compared with MD group (P < 0.05). Compared with MD group, the RM group had lower blood pressure (BP) at T3 (P < 0.05); whereas higher heart rate (HR) and respiration rate (RR) at T1 and T2 (P < 0.05). Difference in AEs was not of statistical significance. Finally, RM group exhibited the increased satisfaction of anesthesia experience compared with MD group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Remimazolam tosilate is effective on anesthesia for short otolaryngology surgery. Remimazolam shows the rapid onset, stable circulation, fast postoperative recovery, no increase in perioperative AEs, and high satisfaction with anesthesia experience compared with midazolam.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

https://www.chictr.org.cn/ (ChiCTR2200067123) on 27/12/2022. This study was consistent with CONSORT guidelines.

The Role of GABA Receptors in Anesthesia and Sedation: An Updated Review

GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) receptors are constituents of many inhibitory synapses within the central nervous system. They are formed by 5 subunits out of 19 various subunits: α1-6, β1-3, γ1-3, δ, ε, θ, π, and ρ1-3. Two main subtypes of GABA receptors have been identified, namely GABAA and GABAB. The GABAA receptor (GABAAR) is formed by a variety of combinations of five subunits, although both α and β subunits must be included to produce a GABA-gated ion channel. Other subunits are γ, δ, ε, π, and ϴ. GABAAR has many isoforms, that dictate, among other properties, their differing affinities and conductance. Drugs acting on GABAAR form the cornerstone of anesthesia and sedation practice. Some such GABAAR agonists used in anesthesia practice are propofol, etomidate, methohexital, thiopental, isoflurane, sevoflurane, and desflurane. Ketamine, nitrous oxide, and xenon are not GABAR agonists and instead inhibit glutamate receptors-mainly NMDA receptors. Inspite of its many drawbacks such as pain in injection, quick and uncontrolled conversion from sedation to general anesthesia and dose-related cardiovascular depression, propofol remains the most popular GABAR agonist employed by anesthesia providers. In addition, being formulated in a lipid emulsion, contamination and bacterial growth is possible. Literature is rife with newer propofol formulations, aiming to address many of these drawbacks, and with some degree of success. A nonemulsion propofol formulation has been developed with cyclodextrins, which form inclusion complexes with drugs having lipophilic properties while maintaining aqueous solubility. Inhalational anesthetics are also GABA agonists. The binding sites are primarily located within α+/β- and β+/α- subunit interfaces, with residues in the α+/γ- interface. Isoflurane and sevoflurane might have slightly different binding sites providing unexpected degree of selectivity. Methoxyflurane has made a comeback in Europe for rapid provision of analgesia in the emergency departments. Penthrox (Galen, UK) is the special device designed for its administration. With better understanding of pharmacology of GABAAR agonists, newer sedative agents have been developed, which utilize "soft pharmacology," a term pertaining to agents that are rapidly metabolized into inactive metabolites after producing desired therapeutic effect(s). These newer "soft" GABAAR agonists have many properties of ideal sedative agents, as they can offer well-controlled, titratable activity and ultrashort action. Remimazolam, a modified midazolam and methoxycarbonyl-etomidate (MOC-etomidate), an ultrashort-acting etomidate analog are two such examples. Cyclopropyl methoxycarbonyl metomidate is another second-generation soft etomidate analog that has a greater potency and longer half-life than MOC-etomidate. Additionally, it might not cause adrenal axis suppression. Carboetomidate is another soft analog of etomidate with low affinity for 11β-hydroxylase and is, therefore, unlikely to have clinically significant adrenocortical suppressant effects. Alphaxalone, a GABAAR agonist, is recently formulated in combination with 7-sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBECD), which has a low hypersensitivity profile.

Comparing Remimazolam and Propofol for Postoperative Anesthesia Satisfaction in Outpatient Gynecological Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of remimazolam and propofol regarding postoperative anesthesia satisfaction in patients undergoing outpatient gynecological surgery.

Patients and Methods

This was a single-center, open-label, non-inferiority, randomized clinical trial. Patients aged ≥ 18 years who underwent outpatient gynecological surgery with sedation were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to be sedated with remimazolam or propofol. The primary endpoint was the immediate postoperative anesthesia satisfaction score, evaluated through the Iowa Satisfaction with Anesthesia Scale (ISAS).

Results

168 patients were randomly allocated to either the remimazolam group (n = 84) or the propofol group (n = 84). The mean (standard deviation) ISAS scores immediately after surgery were 1.7 (0.6) for the remimazolam group and 2.0 (0.7) for the propofol group (difference, -0.2; 97.5% confidence interval [CI]: -0.5 to -0.0; p = 0.02), indicating non-inferiority. The length of post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) stay was longer in the remimazolam group than in the propofol group (27.6 [9.1] min vs 22.4 [7.0] min; difference, 5.2 [95% CI: 2.7 to 7.6] min; p < 0.001). High-intensity injection pain was less frequently observed in the remimazolam group than in the propofol group (3.6% vs 45.2%; difference, -41.7% [95% CI: -54.2% to -29.1%]; p < 0.001). The nausea score was higher in the remimazolam group immediately after surgery than in the propofol group. Pain, nausea, sleep quality, anxiety, and depression scores were higher in the remimazolam group than in the propofol group on postoperative day 1. The incidence of adverse events and other secondary endpoints was comparable between the two groups.

Conclusion

Remimazolam was non-inferior to propofol regarding postoperative anesthesia satisfaction in patients undergoing outpatient gynecological surgery. Therefore, it should be considered as a new sedation alternative in such procedures.

Comparison of hypotension between propofol and remimazolam-propofol combinations sedation for day-surgery hysteroscopy: a prospective, randomized, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

A combination of remimazolam and propofol could produce more stable sedation. A good medication regimen should consider not only efficacy but also safety, especially hypotension. The aim of the current study was to compare the incidence and amount of hypotension by propofol versus remimazolam-propofol combinations in day-surgery hysteroscopy.

METHODS

Patients were randomly assigned to receive either propofol (Group P, n = 125) or remimazolam-propofol combinations (Group RP, n = 125) at a 1:1 ratio. Intravenous injection of sufentanil 0.1ug/kg were administered before sedative medication. In group P, a bolus of 2.5 mg/kg propofol was administered. In group RP, intravenous anesthesia was commenced with 0.125 mg/kg remimazolam and 1 mg/kg propofol. After loss of consciousness, propofol was maintained at 6 mg/kg/h. The primary outcomes were the incidence and amount of hypotension during surgery. Hypotension was defined as a MAP less than 65mmHg for at least 1 min. The amount of hypotension was assessed by time-weighted average intraoperative MAP under a threshold of 65 mmHg. The secondary outcomes were various anesthesia related parameters and some adverse events.

RESULTS

In group P, 25 patients (20.0%) experienced hypotension during hysteroscopy compared with 9 patients (7.2%) in group RP, for a difference of 12.8% (RR 2.778, 95%CI [1.352-5.709]). The combination of remimazolam and propofol resulted in significantly lower TWA (Time Weighted Average) threshold 0.14 (0.10-0.56) mmHg in group RP compared to 0.31 (0.15-0.67) mmHg in group P. The total dose of propofol was nearly double in group P compared to group RP. A significantly higher frequency of injection pain and low oxygen saturation was observed in the group P than that of the group RP. Hiccup was observed only in group RP. The incidences of body movement, bradycardia and vomiting were no significant difference between groups.

CONCLUSION

The incidence and amount of hypotension by remimazolam-propofol combinations was significantly less than that by propofol sedation in day-surgery hysteroscopy. The optimization of medication regimen would attenuate the harm of hypotension and contribute to patients' rapid recovery in day surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2400079888 (date: 15/01/2024).

Age-Related Response to Remimazolam among Older Patients Undergoing Orthopedic Surgery: A Single-Center Prospective Observational Study

Background and Objectives: Remimazolam, an ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine, is increasingly used in procedural sedation and general anesthesia. It is characterized by rapid onset of action, inactive metabolites, no delay in recovery, and few adverse events. Its hemodynamic and respiratory stability are comparable to other anesthetics, and it is safe in high-risk and geriatric patients. Materials and Methods: This prospective, observational study enrolled 110 geriatric patients (aged 65 to 85 years) scheduled for primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The patients were divided into the old (65 to <75 years; n = 52) and the elderly (75 to 85 years; n = 47) geriatric groups. All surgical and anesthetic methods were applied in the same manner, and TKA was performed by one surgeon. Remimazolam was infused at 6 mg/kg/h for 3 min and then at 1 mg/kg/h until the end of surgery The primary study endpoint was the requirement for flumazenil; secondary endpoints were the times to reach a bispectral index (BIS) < 60 and >80, as well as the rate of apnea occurrence. Results: Flumazenil administration was similar in both groups. There were no differences in the time to reach BIS < 60 or the rate of apnea occurrence. Recovery characteristics, including the time to reach BIS > 80 and the achievement of full consciousness, were also comparable between the groups. Conclusions: Remimazolam is well-tolerated in geriatric patients undergoing orthopedic surgery, with minimal age-related differences in response. These results suggest that remimazolam is an appropriate anesthetic for geriatric patients, even with similar dosing strategies. It provides effective anesthetic depth with no significant increases in adverse outcomes during orthopedic surgery.

Comparison of Remimazolam and Propofol in Recovery of Elderly Outpatients Undergoing Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: A Randomized, Non-Inferiority Trial

Purpose

We designed this trial to compare the recovery time of remimazolam and propofol in elderly patients undergoing painless gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Patients and Methods

In this randomized, non-Inferiority trial, 360 patients aged 65 years or older, scheduled for elective outpatient gastrointestinal endoscopy, were randomly assigned to the remimazolam combined with fentanyl (RF) group or the propofol combined with fentanyl (PF) group. The primary outcome was the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) stay time, defined as the time from the end of the examination to scoring 9 points using the Modified Post-Anesthetic Discharge Scoring System (MPADSS) criteria. Secondary outcomes included sedation-related adverse events, recall, injection pain, as well as postoperative Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) scores and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month postoperatively.

Results

A total of 351 patients completed the study, with 174 receiving remimazolam and 177 receiving propofol. The PACU stay time in RF group was non-inferior to that in PF group [14 (11, 18) vs 13 (10, 17), mean difference 1 (95% confidence interval 0, 2), P=0.084 for noninferiority]. However, remimazolam was associated with lower rate of hypoxemia [4.7% (8/180) vs 12.4% (22/180), P=0.011], reduced use of vasoactive drugs [1 (0, 1) vs 1 (1, 2), P<0.001], less injection pain [2 (1.2%) vs 35 (21.3%), P<0.001], and lower recall [20 (11.8%) vs 36 (20.3%), P=0.034]. There were no differences in the QoR-15 scores and PSQI scores at postoperative 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month between groups.

Conclusion

This non-inferiority study revealed that in elderly outpatients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy, remimazolam achieved recovery times comparable to propofol, with fewer associated complications.

Remimazolam in intensive care unit: Potential applications and considerations

This manuscript explores the potential use of Remimazolam in the intensive care unit (ICU) and critical care units, considering its pharmacological characteristics, clinical applications, advantages, and comparative effectiveness over current sedatives and anesthetics. We reviewed existing PubMed and Google Scholar literature to find relevant studies on Remimazolam in ICU. We created search criteria using a combination of free text words, including Remimazolam, critical care, intensive care, sedation, anesthesia, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. Relevant articles published in the English language were analyzed and incorporated. Remimazolam is an ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine derivative promising for sedation and anesthesia. It is a safer option for hemodynamically unstable, elderly, or liver or kidney issues. It also has comparable deep sedation properties to propofol in the ICU. Furthermore, it reduces post-procedural delirium and patient comfort and reduces the need for additional sedatives in pediatric patients. In conclusion, Remimazolam is an excellent alternative to current sedatives and anesthetics in the ICU. Its cost is comparable to that of current medications. Further research on its long-term safety in the ICU and its broader application and incorporation into routine use is necessary.

Remimazolam in Cardiac Anesthesia: Analysis of Recent Data

Interest in remimazolam has surged in recent years, thanks to its advantageous pharmacologic profile. This ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine is noted for its rapid onset and termination of action, organ-independent elimination, availability of a reversal agent, and excellent hemodynamic stability. Although the use of remimazolam has been explored in various anesthesia settings and procedures, data on its application in cardiovascular anesthesia and catheterization laboratory procedures remain limited. This review evaluates the latest literature to assess remimazolam's role in cardiovascular anesthesia across different settings and procedures. The analysis shows that remimazolam offers anesthesia without significant hemodynamic instability and a reduced need for vasopressors, with an incidence of perioperative adverse events comparable to that of other agents. These findings are relevant for both the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in catheterization laboratory procedures and general anesthesia in elective cardiac surgery. Although further research is needed to fully understand remimazolam's role in cardiovascular anesthesia, its favorable hemodynamic and safety profile suggests that it is a promising option for cardiac anesthesiologists in both the catheterization laboratory and the operating room.

Safety and efficacy of remimazolam versus propofol during EUS: a multicenter randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Propofol, a widely used sedative in GI endoscopic procedures, is associated with cardiorespiratory suppression. Remimazolam is a novel ultrashort-acting benzodiazepine sedative with rapid onset and minimal cardiorespiratory depression. This study compared the safety and efficacy of remimazolam and propofol during EUS procedures.

METHODS

A multicenter randomized controlled study was conducted between October 2022 and March 2023 in patients who underwent EUS procedures. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either remimazolam or propofol as a sedative agent. The primary endpoint was cardiorespiratory adverse events (AEs) during the procedure, including desaturation, respiratory depression, hypotension, and tachycardia. Secondary endpoints were the time to achieve sedation, recovery time, quality of sedation, pain at the injection site, and satisfaction of both endoscopists and patients.

RESULTS

Four hundred patients enrolled in the study: 200 received remimazolam (10.8 ± 7.7 mg) and 200 received propofol (88.0 ± 49.1 mg). For cardiorespiratory AEs, the remimazolam group experienced fewer occurrences than the propofol group (8.5% vs 16%, P = .022). A nonsignificant trend was found toward less oxygen desaturation (1.0% vs 3.5%, P = .09), respiratory depression (.5% vs 1.5%, P = .62), hypotension (2.5% vs 5.5%, P = .12), and tachycardia (4.5% vs 5.5%, P = .68) with remimazolam than with propofol. Remimazolam showed a shorter induction time than propofol while maintaining comparable awakening and recovery times. Injection site pain was significantly lower in the remimazolam group than in the propofol group. The remimazolam group demonstrated a significantly higher quality of sedation and satisfaction scores than the propofol group, as evaluated by both endoscopists and patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Remimazolam was superior to propofol in terms of safety and efficacy during EUS examinations. (Clinical trial registration number: KCT 0007643.).

Effects of Propofol, Low and High Doses of Remimazolam on Hemodynamic and Inflammatory Response in Laparoscopic Surgery

Background

This study explored the effects of different doses of remimazolam tosilate (RT) and propofol combined with remifentanil anesthesia on hemodynamic and inflammatory responses in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery.

Subjects and Methods

Ninety patients with a BMI of less than 35 kg/m², classified as ASA II-III and scheduled for laparoscopic surgery, were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into three groups: low-dose RT group (A), high-dose RT group (B), and propofol group (C). The changes in hemodynamic indices such as SBP, DBP, HR, MAP, and inflammatory response indices such as IL-6, SAA, CRP, and PCT, along with extubation time and doses of sufentanil, remifentanil, urapidil, and phenylephrine, were compared among the three groups.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in extubation time, doses of sufentanil and remifentanil, or the usage rates and average doses of urapidil and phenylephrine between the three groups. The average dose of phenylephrine in group A was lower than in group B and group C, with a statistically significant difference. There were no statistically significant differences among the groups in SBP, DBP, HR, and MAP from T0 to T2, nor in IL-6, SAA, CRP, or PCT levels.

Conclusion

Using RT for induction and maintenance of anesthesia in laparoscopic surgery ensures stable hemodynamic and inflammatory responses in patients. Low-dose RT may reduce the usage rate and dose of vasopressors such as phenylephrine during surgery.

Randomized Controlled Trial of Remimazolam Compared with Placebo in Japanese Patients Undergoing Colonoscopy: A Phase III, Investigator-Initiated Trial

INTRODUCTION

We conducted an investigator-initiated clinical trial in which remimazolam was used to achieve sedation in patients undergoing colonoscopies.

METHODS

This multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase III investigator-initiated trial included patients who underwent colonoscopy under sedation with remimazolam (initial dose: 3 mg; additional dose: 1 mg) or normal saline (placebo). The primary endpoint of the study was the successful sedation rate during colonoscopy, defined as achieving a Modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation (MOAA/S) score of ≤4 before the procedure, maintaining this score throughout colonoscopy, and requiring no more than five additional drug doses per 15 min.

RESULTS

The sedation success rate was 95.0% (38/40 patients) in the remimazolam group and 0.0% (0/11 patients) in the placebo group (p < 0.01). The time from the end of procedure to regaining consciousness was 0.0 (interquartile range: 0.0-0.0) min in both groups. The time from the end of the procedure to ambulation was 5.0 (interquartile range: 0.0-10.0) min in the remimazolam group and 0.0 (interquartile range: 0.0-0.0) min in the placebo group (p = 0.02). Serious adverse events were not observed.

CONCLUSION

The use of remimazolam to achieve sedation in Japanese patients undergoing colonoscopy was more effective than placebo.

The effects of remimazolam combined with sufentanil on respiration, circulation and sedation level in patients undergoing colonoscopy

BACKGROUND

The main sedative which is propofol in painless gastroenteroscopy, has a high risk of reducing blood pressure and respiratory depression. Remimazolam (a short-acting benzodiazepine) is expected to be widely used in painless gastroenteroscopy due to its rapid onset, rapid metabolism and light respiratory and circulation inhibition.

METHODS

A randomized, single-blind, parallel, controlled study, 123 outpatients who were undergoing painless colonoscopy and ramdomly divided into group A, B and C, in Hangzhou First People's Hospital, July-December 2021. All patients were intravenously injected with 5 µg sufentanil for analgesic preconditioning. The group A was induced by 0.2 mg/kg remimazolam besylate. The group B was induced by 0.25 mg/kg remimazolam besylate. And the group C was inducted by 2.0 mg /kg propofol. If the patients had limb movement or MOAA/S score > 3 and so on, remimazolam besylate was added at 2.5 mg/ time in group A and B, and propofol emulsion injection was added at 0.5 mg/kg/ time in group C. During the operation, according to the actual situation, remimazolam was per added 2.5 mg in the experimental group, and propofol was 0.5 mg/kg in the control group. Heart rate (HR), non-invasive blood pressure (BP), respiratory rate (RR), pulse oxygen saturation (SpO2), and improved vigilance/sedation score (MOAA/S) of patients was recorded from entering endoscopy room to get out of the anesthesia recovery room, also including perioperative adverse events, other medications or treatments, the time of patients waking up and leaving the hospital.

RESULTS

The successful rate of induction in three groups was 100%. There was no significant difference in the sedation completion rate among the three groups (Group A:90.2%, Group B: 92.7%, Group C: 92.7%, P = 1.000). The rate of adverse events after administration: group A(27.0%) and B(36.8%) both lower than group C(71.0%),P < 0.001;There was no significant difference between group A and group B, P > 0.744;The average time from the last drug administration to meet the discharge criteria of the subjects in three groups was as follows: The average time of group A(16.2 min) and Group B(16.5 min) both shorter than group C(19.6 min), P = 0.001; There was no significant difference between group A and group B, P = 0.742.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that remimazolam is a safe and effective medication for colonoscopy sedation, the security of remimazolam is better than propofol, and the sedative effect with the initial dose of 0.25 mg/kg of remimazolam is optimal.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

China Clinical Trial Center with registration number: 2100052615,02/11/2021.

A Comparison of Hypotension, Bradycardia, and Hypoxia Incidence between the Use of Remimazolam and Other Sedative Agents during Colonoscopy Procedures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

(1) Background: Remimazolam is a newly developed sedative agent. The results of previous meta-analyses highlight the strengths of remimazolam for use during colonoscopy procedures. The primary aim of the present study was to investigate whether, in patients undergoing colonoscopy procedures (P), the use of remimazolam (I) compared with other sedative agents (C) could lead to a greater incidence of hypotension, bradycardia, and hypoxia (O). (2) Methods: In the following study, we conducted an extensive literature search using two electronic databases. We included all randomized control trials, which involved a comparison of the hemodynamic changes in remimazolam versus a placebo and other sedative agents during colonoscopy procedures. Data extraction, data synthesis, and the assessment of risk of bias were performed by the authors. (3) Results: A total of seven articles met our inclusion criteria. The combined analysis of the selected studies revealed no statistically significant difference in hypotension, bradycardia, or hypoxia incidence when comparing remimazolam and the control group. However, in comparison with the group administered propofol, the pooled data of the selected studies revealed statistically significant differences in the incidence of both hypotension and bradycardia but not hypoxia. (4) Conclusions: Our findings indicate that there is no significant difference in hypotension, bradycardia, and hypoxia incidence when comparing remimazolam and other agents. Nevertheless, when comparing the remimazolam and propofol groups, the results demonstrated statistically significant differences in the incidence of both hypotension and bradycardia but not hypoxia.

Remimazolam for sedation in gastrointestinal endoscopy: A comprehensive review

Worldwide, a majority of routine endoscopic procedures are performed under some form of sedation to maximize patient comfort. Propofol, benzodiazepines and opioids continue to be widely used. However, in recent years, Remimazolam is gaining immense popularity for procedural sedation in gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. It is an ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine sedative which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July 2020 for use in procedural sedation. Remimazolam has shown a favorable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile in terms of its non-specific metabolism by tissue esterase, volume of distribution, total body clearance, and negligible drug-drug interactions. It also has satisfactory efficacy and has achieved high rates of successful sedation in GI endoscopy. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that the efficacy of Remimazolam is non-inferior to Propofol, which is currently a gold standard for procedural sedation in most parts of the world. However, the use of Propofol is associated with hemodynamic instability and respiratory depression. In contrast, Remimazolam has lower incidence of these adverse effects intra-procedurally and hence, may provide a safer alternative to Propofol in procedural sedation. In this comprehensive narrative review, highlight the pharmacologic characteristics, efficacy, and safety of Remimazolam for procedural sedation. We also discuss the potential of Remimazolam as a suitable alternative and how it can shape the future of procedural sedation in gastroenterology.

Effects of Remimazolam versus Sevoflurane on Hemodynamics in Patients Undergoing Coil Embolization of Cerebral Aneurysm: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Cerebral aneurysm coil embolization is often performed under general anesthesia to prevent patient movement and sudden high blood pressure. However, the optimal anesthetic agent remains uncertain. This study aimed to determine whether maintaining anesthesia with remimazolam in patients undergoing coil embolization could avoid hypotension or hypertension compared to sevoflurane. Methods: Thirty-three adult patients participated in this single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Patients in Group R were induced and maintained with remimazolam, whereas those in Group S received propofol and sevoflurane. Results: The use of remimazolam significantly reduced the incidence of intraoperative hypotension events (33.3% vs. 80.0%; p = 0.010) but did not change the incidence of hypertension events (66.7% vs. 73.3%; p = 0.690). Patients in Group R maintained a significantly higher range of maximal (100.2 ± 16.6 vs. 88.1 ± 13.5 mmHg; p = 0.037) and minimal (69.4 ± 6.6 vs. 63.4 ± 4.8 mmHg; p = 0.008) mean arterial blood pressure than those in Group S during the intervention. Conclusions: This is the first study to demonstrate the feasibility of maintaining general anesthesia with remimazolam in patients undergoing cerebral aneurysm coil embolization. The findings suggest that remimazolam may maintains better hemodynamic stability, reducing the incidence of hypotensive events without compromising patient safety.

The Gathering Storm: The 2023 Rovenstine Lecture

Anesthesiologists are currently in demand and highly compensated. What appears to be a great success from our perspective is considered problematic from every other healthcare perspective. Consequently, there are powerful healthcare forces seeking to improve anesthesia access and reduce service cost. They will try to impose solutions that may radically change operative anesthesia. The Rovenstine lecture, delivered on World Anesthesia Day 2023, identified substantial challenges our specialty faces and discusses solutions that might be forced on us. It also presented opportunities in perioperative care.

Influences of Propofol, Ciprofol and Remimazolam on Dreaming During Anesthesia for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: A Randomized Double-Blind Parallel-Design Trial

Purpose

To compare the influences of propofol, ciprofol and remimazolam on dreaming during painless gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Methods

This study was a single-center, prospective, parallel-design, double-blind, randomized clinical trial. Between May 2023 and October 2023, patients undergoing elective painless gastrointestinal endoscopy were recruited and randomly allocated into one of the three groups. Demographic data, intraoperative information, incidence of dreaming, insufficient anesthesia and intraoperative awareness, type of dream, patient satisfaction score, adverse events, and improvement of sleep quality were collected.

Results

The difference in incidence of dreaming among the three groups was not significant (33.33% vs 48.33% vs 41.67%, p=0.061). The number of patients with intraoperative hypotension in the propofol group was larger than that of the remimazolam group (32 vs 12, p=0.001). However, the cases of intraoperative hypotension between propofol group and ciprofol group or ciprofol group and remimazolam group were comparable (32 vs 22, p=0.122; 22 vs 12, p=0.064). The percentage of insufficient anesthesia between propofol group and remimazolam group was significant (13.33% vs 1.67%, p=0.001), while no statistical difference was detected between propofol group and remimazolam group or ciprofol group and remimazolam group (13.33% vs 5.00%, p=0.025; 5.00% vs 1.67%, p=0.150). The ability of propofol to improve sleep quality at 1st post-examination day was significantly better than that of remimazolam (86.21% vs 72.88%, p=0.015), while it was not significant between propofol group and ciprofol group or ciprofol group and remimazolam group (86.21% vs 80.36%, p=0.236; 72.88% vs. 72.88%, p=0.181). Incidence of intraoperative awareness, intraoperative hypoxia, type of dream, satisfaction score, adverse events during recovery, and sleep improvement on the 7th post-examination day was not significant among the groups.

Conclusion

Anesthesia with propofol, ciprofol and remimazolam, respectively, for gastrointestinal endoscopy did not induce statistical difference in the incidence of dreaming, despite that all of them are more likely to induce pleasant dreams.

Relationship between age and remimazolam dose required for inducing loss of consciousness in older surgical patients

Background

Remimazolam is a new ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine for procedural sedation and general anaesthesia, characterised by rapid onset of action, quick recovery, and organ-independent metabolism. Older patients tend to sustain more treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and worse perioperative prognoses after receiving remimazolam. However, few studies have investigated the appropriate dose of remimazolam for loss of consciousness (LOC) in geriatric patients. We designed this study to provide evidence for dose references and elucidate the relationship between age and remimazolam requirement for inducing LOC during anaesthesia induction.

Methods

Exactly 120 patients scheduled for general surgery under general anaesthesia were included and divided into two groups: Group A (60 patients, 18-64 years) and Group B (60 patients, ≥ 65 years). LOC, defined as a Modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness and Sedation score at 1 had been reached, emerged after all participants received a continuous infusion of remimazolam at a rate of 0.05 mg/kg/min.

Results

The remimazolam required for inducing LOC was 0.26 and 0.19 mg/kg in groups A and B, respectively, and the remimazolam dose in group B decreased by 26.9% compared to group A. According to the bivariate linear correlation analysis, remimazolam requirement was negatively correlated with age. Multivariable linear regression models and further adjustments for potential impact factors indicated that age was an independent factor for the remimazolam dose required for LOC.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that age was significantly and independently correlated with the remimazolam requirement for inducing LOC. To obtain haemodynamic stability during the induction of general anaesthesia, appropriately reducing the remimazolam dose is recommended for geriatric patients.

Apnea during moderate to deep sedation using continuous infusion of remimazolam compared to propofol and dexmedetomidine: A retrospective observational study

Remimazolam's rapid onset and offset make it an innovative sedative for use during regional anesthesia. However, its respiratory safety profile is not well understood. We compared the continuous infusion of remimazolam with commonly used sedatives, propofol and dexmedetomidine, after regional anesthesia. In this retrospective study, the incidence of apnea (>10 seconds) was assessed in patients who underwent orthopedic surgery under regional anesthesia and received moderate to deep sedation using continuous infusion of remimazolam (group R: 0.1 mg/kg in 2 minutes followed by 0.5 mg/kg/hr). The incidence was compared with that of propofol (group P: 2-3 μg/mL target-controlled infusion) and dexmedetomidine (group D: 1 μg/kg in 10 minutes followed by 0.4-1 μg/kg/hr). Propensity score weighted multivariable logistic regression model was utilized to determine the effects of the sedative agents on the incidence of apnea. A total of 634 (191, 278, and 165 in group R, P, and D) cases were included in the final analysis. The incidence of apnea was 63.9%, 67.3%, and 48.5% in group R, P, and D, respectively. The adjusted odds ratios for apnea were 2.33 (95% CI, 1.50 to 3.61) and 2.50 (95% CI, 1.63 to 3.85) in group R and P, compared to group D. The incidence of apnea in patients receiving moderate to deep sedation using continuous infusion of remimazolam with dosage suggested in the current study was over 60%. Therefore, careful titration and respiratory monitoring is warranted.

Comparison between remimazolam and propofol anaesthesia for interventional neuroradiology: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

General anaesthesia can immobile patients during interventional neuroradiology to improve image quality. Remimazolam, an ultrashort-acting benzodiazepine, is advantageous for haemodynamic stability. This study compared remimazolam and propofol anaesthesia during neuroradiology procedures regarding intraoperative hypotensive events and rapid recovery.

METHODS

This single-masked randomised-controlled study included 76 participants who underwent elective endovascular embolisation in a single centre. Patients were randomised between a continuous remimazolam infusion (n = 38) or a target-controlled propofol infusion group (n = 38). In the remimazolam group, flumazenil (0.2 mg) was administered at the end of the procedure. Phenylephrine was titrated to maintain the mean arterial pressure within ± 20% of the baseline value. The primary outcome was the total phenylephrine dose during the procedure.

RESULTS

The total phenylephrine dose was 0.0 [0.0-30.0] μg in the remimazolam group and 30.0 [0.0-205.0] μg in the propofol group (p = 0.001). Hypotensive events were observed in 11 (28.9%) patients in the remimazolam group and 23 (60.5%) patients in the propofol group (p = 0.001). Recovery times to spontaneous breathing, eye-opening, extubation, and orientation were shorter in the remimazolam group than in the propofol group (all p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Remimazolam anaesthesia showed superior haemodynamic stability compared with propofol anaesthesia during neuroradiology procedures. Systematic use of flumazenil enabled rapid recovery from remimazolam anaesthesia.

REGISTRATION

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry; Registration number: UMIN000047384; URL: https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000054046.

Efficacy of remimazolam tosilate versus propofol for total intravenous anaesthesia in urological surgery: A randomised clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Remimazolam is a novel ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine sedative that acts on the gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor (GABAAR).

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacies of remimazolam (RMZ), and propofol (PROP) combined with remifentanil and cisatracurium for total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) in patients undergoing urological surgery.

DESIGN

A prospective, single-blind, randomised, noninferiority clinical trial.

SETTING

Single centre from 1 January 2022 to 30 March 2022.

PATIENTS

A total of 146 adult patients undergoing elective urological surgery.

INTERVENTION

Patients were randomly allocated in a 1 : 1 ratio to the PROP or RMZ groups. In the PROP group, anaesthesia was induced with propofol at 100 mg min -1 to reach a bispectral index score (BIS) of 40 to 60. After loss of consciousness (LOC), intravenous fentanyl 3 μg kg -1 was administered, followed by cisatracurium 0.3 mg kg -1 . Patients were intubated 3 min after cisatracurium administration. Anaesthesia was maintained with the combination of propofol (plasma concentration: 2.5 to 4 μg ml -1 ) and remifentanil (plasma concentration: 2.5 to 4 ng ml -1 ). In the RMZ group, anaesthesia was induced with remimazolam tosilate starting at 10 mg kg -1  h -1 to reach a BIS of 40 to 60 and maintained between 0.2 and 2 mg kg -1  h -1 . After LOC, fentanyl and cisatracurium were administered and intubation was performed as in the PROP group. Anaesthesia was maintained with a combination of remimazolam (0.2 to 2 mg kg -1  h -1 ) and remifentanil (plasma concentration: 2.5 to 4 ng ml -1 ).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was the TIVA success rate. The predefined noninferiority margin considered an absolute difference of 6% in the primary outcome between the groups. The secondary outcomes were vital signs, anaesthesia and surgery characteristics, and adverse events.

RESULTS

All patients completed the trial. The success rates of TIVA with remimazolam and propofol were 100 and 98.6%, respectively. The incidence of hypotension during anaesthesia was lower in the RMZ group (26%) than in the PROP group (46.6%) ( P  = 0.016). The median [IQR] total consumption of ephedrine during anaesthesia was higher in the PROP group 10 [0 to 12.5] mg than in the RMZ group 0 [0 to 10] mg ( P  = 0.0002). The incidence of injection pain was significantly higher in the PROP group (76.7%) than in the RMZ group (0; P  < 0.001). No significant differences in the controllability of the anaesthesia depth, anaesthesia and surgery characteristics, or vital signs were observed between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Remimazolam demonstrated noninferior efficacy to propofol combined with remifentanil and cisatracurium for TIVA in patients undergoing urological surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chictr.org.cn, identifier: ChiCTR2100050923.

CLINICAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100050923, Principal investigator: Xuehai Guan, Date of registration: 8 November 2021, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=133466 ).

Benefits of remimazolam as an anesthetic sedative for older patients: A review

Owing to the decreased levels of receptors in the peripheral and central nervous systems, the functions of various organ systems decline in older patients. When administering anesthesia to older patients, it is necessary to consider the effects of medication on the homeostatic balance. Remimazolam, a new benzodiazepine, was recently developed as an anesthetic drug that has shown promise in clinical anesthesia application owing to its molecular structure, targets, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetic characteristics. Remimazolam exhibits a rapid onset and metabolism, with minor effects on liver and kidney functions. Moreover, the drug has a specific antagonist, flumazenil. It is safer to use in older patients than other anesthetic sedatives and has been widely used since its introduction. Comparisons of the pharmacokinetics, metabolic pathways, effects on target organs, and hemodynamics of different drugs with those of commonly used anesthetic sedative drugs are useful to inform clinical practice. This article elaborates on the benefits of remimazolam compared with those of other anesthetic sedatives for sedation in older patients to demonstrate how it offers a new option for anesthetics in older patients. In cases involving older patients with increased clinical complexities or very old patients requiring anesthesia, remimazolam can be selected as the preferred anesthetic sedative, as outlined in this review.

Remimazolam for Procedural Sedation in Older Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with Trial Sequential Analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis (TSA) aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of remimazolam compared to other sedatives for procedural sedation in older patients. We registered the protocol of this systematic review and meta-analysis with TSA in the PROSPERO network (CRD42023441209). Two investigators performed a systematic, comprehensive, and independent search of the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing remimazolam with other sedatives in older patients undergoing procedural sedation. Conventional meta-analysis and TSA were also performed. Seven RCTs (1502 patients) were included. Pooled results demonstrated that remimazolam was associated with a low incidence of hypoxemia, hypotension, bradycardia, respiratory depression, and injection pain. Remimazolam also required a long time to cause loss of consciousness. There were no differences in rates of sedation success, dizziness/headache, postoperative nausea and vomiting, or recovery time. Older patients receiving procedural sedation with remimazolam had a lower risk of hypoxemia, hypotension, bradycardia, respiratory depression, and injection pain than those receiving other sedatives, suggesting that remimazolam may be more suitable for procedural sedation in older patients.

Randomized controlled trial of remimazolam compared with placebo in Japanese patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: Phase III investigator-initiated clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of remimazolam against normal saline (placebo) as a sedative agent for endoscopy in a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, investigator-initiated phase III controlled trial.

METHODS

We included 48 Japanese patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. For the procedure, an initial remimazolam dose of 3 mg and additional doses of 1 mg were administered, as determined in the phase II clinical study. The primary study end-point was the successful sedation rate during gastrointestinal endoscopy, determined as a Modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation score ≤4 before the start of endoscopy, the completion of gastrointestinal endoscopy, and two or fewer additional doses per 6 min.

RESULTS

The successful endoscopy sedation rates were 91.9% and 9.1% in the remimazolam and placebo groups, respectively (P < 0.01). The time from the end of endoscopy to arousal was 0.0 (0.0-0.0) min for both groups. The number of additional doses required to achieve sedation was lower in the remimazolam group than that in the placebo group (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Remimazolam demonstrated a significantly higher sedation effect during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in Japanese patients with safe and fast recovery compared with placebo.

Comparison of remimazolam and propofol combined with low dose esketamine for pediatric same-day painless bidirectional endoscopy: a randomized, controlled clinical trial

Background: Remimazolam has shown similar or even superior properties to propofol in procedural sedation in adults, but few studies have been conducted in pediatric populations. Thus, we aimed to compare the effect and safety of remimazolam and propofol combined with low dose esketamine for pediatric same-day bidirectional endoscopy (BDE). Methods: Pediatrics <18 years scheduled for elective BDE under sedation were included and randomly assigned to remimazolam group (R group) or propofol group (P group). The primary outcome was the success rate of sedation. Secondary outcomes include sedation-related information and adverse events. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and perfusion index (PI) were recorded during sedation. Results: A total of 106 patients were enrolled and analyzed. The success rate of sedation was 100% in both groups. Compared with the P group, the induction time of the R group was significantly prolonged (p < 0.001), and the incidence of injection pain, intraoperative respiratory depression, hypotension and bradycardia was significantly lower (p < 0.001). The changes in MAP, HR and PI were relatively stable in the R group compared with the P group. Additionally, awake time significantly decreased with age by approximately 1.12 index points for each increase in age in the P group (p = 0.002) but not in the R group (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the decline in PI and PI ratio during BDE was related to body movement in the P group. Conclusion: Remimazolam combined with low dose esketamine has a non-inferior sedative effect than propofol for pediatric BDE, with no injection pain, less respiratory depression, more stable hemodynamics. Moreover, early detection of the decline in PI may avoid harmful stimulation under light anesthesia. Clinical trial registration: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05686863?id=NCT05686863&rank=1, NCT05686863.

Baseline Cannabinoid Use Is Associated with Increased Sedation Requirements for Outpatient Endoscopy

Background and Aims: Given the underlying properties of cannabinoids, we aimed to assess associations between cannabinoid use and sedation requirements for esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy. Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at three endoscopy units. Adult outpatients undergoing EGD or colonoscopy with endoscopist-directed conscious sedation (EDCS) were given questionnaires on cannabinoid use and relevant parameters. Outcomes included intraprocedural midazolam, fentanyl, and diphenhydramine use, procedural tolerability, and adverse events. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to yield adjusted odds ratios (AORs) of outcomes. Results: A total of 419 patients were included. Baseline cannabinoid use was associated with high midazolam use, defined as ≥5 mg, during EGD (AOR 2.89, 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.19-7.50), but not during colonoscopy (AOR 0.89, 95% CI 0.41-1.91). Baseline cannabinoid use was associated with the administration of any diphenhydramine during EGD (AOR 3.04, 95% CI: 1.29-7.30) with a similar nonsignificant trend for colonoscopy (AOR 2.36, 95% CI: 0.81-7.04). Baseline cannabinoid use was associated with increased odds of requiring high total sedation, defined as any of midazolam ≥5 mg, fentanyl ≥100 mcg, or any diphenhydramine during EGD (AOR 3.72, 95% CI: 1.35-11.68). Cannabinoid use was not independently associated with fentanyl use, intraprocedural awareness, discomfort, or adverse events. Conclusions: Baseline cannabinoid use was associated with higher sedation use during endoscopy with EDCS, particularly with midazolam and diphenhydramine. Given increasingly widespread cannabinoid use, endoscopists should be equipped with optimal sedation strategies for this population. As part of the informed consent process, cannabis users should be counseled that they may require higher sedation doses to achieve the same effect.

Effect of remimazolam vs propofol in high-risk patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: a non-inferiority randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Procedural sedation is essential for optimizing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, particularly in high-risk patients with multiple underlying diseases. Respiratory and circulatory complications present significant challenges for procedural sedation in this population. This non-inferiority randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the safety and comfort of remimazolam compared to propofol for procedural sedation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in high-risk patients.

METHODS

A total of 576 high-risk patients scheduled to undergo upper gastrointestinal endoscopy are planned to be enrolled in this study and randomly allocated to either the remimazolam or propofol group. The primary outcome measure is a composite endpoint, which includes (1) achieving a Modified Observer's Alertness/Sedation scale (MOAA/S) score ≤ 3 before endoscope insertion, (2) successful completion of the endoscopic procedure, (3) the absence of significant respiratory instability during the endoscopy and treatment, and (4) the absence of significant circulatory instability during the examination. The noninferiority margin was 10%. Any adverse events (AEs) that occur will be reported.

DISCUSSION

This trial aims to determine whether remimazolam is non-inferior to propofol for procedural sedation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in high-risk patients, regarding success rate, complication incidence, patient comfort, and satisfaction. TRIAL REGISTRATION {2A AND 2B}: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ClinicalTrials.gov ChiCTR2200066527. Registered on 7 December 2022.

Dreaming during gastrointestinal endoscopy under propofol, ciprofol, or remimazolam anesthesia: study protocol for a parallel-design double-blind, single-center trial

BACKGROUND

Dreaming sometimes occurs during sedation. It has been reported that factors such as different anesthetics, depth of anesthesia, age, sex, and preoperative psychological state may affect dreams. Ciprofol and remimazolam are novel choices for painless endoscopy. Herein, we aimed to investigate dreaming during gastrointestinal endoscopy under propofol, ciprofol, and remimazolam anesthesia respectively.

METHODS

This is a prospective, parallel-design double-blind, single-center clinical trial. Three hundred and sixty subjects undergoing elective painless gastroscopy, colonoscopy, or gastroenteroscopy will be enrolled. Eligible subjects will undergo propofol-, ciprofol-, or remimazolam-induced anesthesia to finish the examination. Interviews about the modified Brice questionnaire will be conducted in the recovery room. Incidence of dreaming is set as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes include type of dreams, improvement of sleep quality, evaluation of patients, incidence of insufficient anesthesia, and intraoperative awareness. Safety outcomes are the incidences of hypotension and hypoxia during examination and adverse events during recovery.

DISCUSSION

This study may observe different incidences of dreaming and diverse types of dreams, which might lead to different evaluations to the anesthesia procedure. Based on the coming results, anesthesiologists can make a better medication plan for patients who are going to undergo painless diagnosis and treatment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on May 18, 2023 (registration number ChiCTR2300071565).

Clinical Trial Comparing Remimazolam with Propofol During Intravenous Anesthesia: A Prospective Randomised Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Remimazolam is a water-soluble sedative-anesthetic with short-acting properties and less hemodynamic effects. Currently, it is primarily used for gastroenteroscopy sedation.

AIM

The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness and safety of Remimazolam as an alternative intravenous anesthetic agent in surgical patients, in order to expand clinical options beyond Propofol.

METHODS

Eighty patients aged 20-69 and classified as an American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-II were randomly assigned to either the Remimazolam group (RM group) or the Propofol group (PR group) for anesthesia induction and maintenance. Hemodynamics and Bispectral Index (BIS) were recorded before and after anesthesia, along with other relevant indices such as the time, to loss of consciousness (LoC), operation time, anesthesia time, awakening time, the number of cases of injection site pain. Additionally, the Ramsay sedation score, intraoperative awareness, dreaming, and postoperative adverse events were also assessed.

RESULTS

After anesthesia, both groups experienced a significant decrease in blood pressure compared to baseline values, however, the reduction in blood pressure was less significant in the RM group than in the PR group (P<0.05). The heart rate of patients in the RM group remained relatively stable at all time points. There were significantly more cases of injection site pain and use of pressor or atropine during operation observed in the PR group compared to the RM group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of time to loss of consciousness, anesthesia time, operation time, awakening time, and intraoperative awareness (P>0.05). However, at 5 and 30 minutes after awakening, the Ramsay sedation score was significantly better in the RM group compared to the PR group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

When remimazolam is used for intravenous anesthesia induction and maintenance, it can achieve a favorable anesthetic effect while maintaining a relatively stable blood pressure and heart rate. Patients experience shorter awakening times (8.3±3.7 min), better awakening quality (5 min Ramsay sedation score is 2 points), and no intraoperative awareness.

Remimazolam and serious adverse events: A scoping review

Remimazolam is anticipated to be an interesting anaesthetic and sedative. It combines the pharmacodynamic properties of midazolam with pharmacokinetic properties similar to remifentanil. However, worrisome case reports of anaphylaxis, delayed emergence and re-sedation have emerged recently and necessitate further investigation.PubMed (including MEDLINE) and EMBASE were searched for all studies reporting serious adverse events where remimazolam was administered for sedation or anaesthesia.Thirty-six case reports and 73 trials were identified, involving a total of 6740 patients who received remimazolam. Hypotension was reported in 911 cases, delayed emergence in 68 cases, anaphylaxis in 10 cases and re-sedation in 8 cases. The incidence of hypotension seems to be lower compared with other anaesthetics, even in high-risk patients.Delayed emergence might be related to the metabolism of remimazolam through carboxylesterase 1 (CES1), a tissue esterase predominant in the liver. There is significant interindividual variation, and it is inhibited by flavonoids, fatty acids and alcohol. Individual benzodiazepine sensitivity has also been reported. A higher BMI, older age and low plasma albumin concentration are risk factors for delayed emergence. Anaphylaxis might be related to a non-IgE-mediated effect of the excipient dextran-40 or a partially IgE-mediated reaction to remimazolam itself. Resedation has been reported after flumazenil reversal and is explained by the specific pharmacokinetic properties of flumazenil and remimazolam. Reversal by flumazenil should be reserved for and used carefully in patients with delayed emergence.

VISUAL ABSTRACT

http://links.lww.com/EJA/A864 .

Remimazolam tosylate's long-term sedative properties in ICU patients on mechanical ventilation: effectiveness and safety

OBJECTIVE

This study compared remimazolam tosylate with propofol or midazolam to assess its safety and effectiveness for long-term sedation of intensive care unit (ICU) patients requiring mechanical ventilation.

METHODS

Adult patients in the ICU receiving sedation and mechanical ventilation for longer than 24 h were included in this single-center, prospective, observational study. Depending on the sedatives they were given, they were split into two groups (midazolam or propofol group; remimazolam group). ICU mortality was the main result. Laboratory tests, adverse events, and the length of ICU stay were considered secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 106 patients were involved (46 received propofol or midazolam versus 60 received remimazolam). Age (P = 0.182), gender (P = 0.325), and the amount of time between being admitted to the ICU and receiving medication infusion (P = 0.770) did not substantially differ between the two groups. Multivariate analysis revealed no statistically significant difference in ICU mortality between the two groups. The remimazolam group showed less variability in heart rate (P = 0.0021), pH (P = 0.048), bicarbonate (P = 0.0133), lactate (P = 0.0002), arterial blood gas analyses, liver, and kidney function. The Richmond Agitation and Sedation Scale scores, length of ICU stay, and occurrence of adverse events did not exhibit significant differences between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Remimazolam tosylate did not increase the total inpatient cost, the incidence of adverse events, and ICU mortality in patients with mechanical ventilation. These findings suggest that remimazolam may represent a promising alternative for sedation in the ICU setting.

Effects of remimazolam combined with sufentanil on hemodynamics during anesthetic induction in elderly patients with mild hypertension undergoing orthopedic surgery of the lower limbs: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

This randomized controlled trial was performed to observe the effect of remimazolam with sufentanil on hemodynamics during anesthetic induction in elderly patients with mild hypertension undergoing orthopedic surgery of the lower limbs.

METHODS

Sixty elderly patients were randomly assigned to undergo general anesthesia with intravenous injection of either remimazolam besylate (25 mg/vial, batch number 10T11011; Yichang Humanwell Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Yichang, China) at 0.2 mg/kg (Group R, n = 30) or propofol at 1.5 mg/kg (Group P, n = 30). Both injections were completed within 15 to 20 s. If the bispectral index value did not reach 40 to 60, then 0.05 mg/kg of remimazolam was added in Group P and 1 mg/kg of propofol was added in Group R. When the BIS value reached 40 to 60, sufentanil was administered at 0.3 to 0.5 µg/kg and cisatracurium was administered at 0.15 to 0.2 mg/kg in both groups. Three minutes later, tracheal intubation and controlled ventilation were performed to maintain the end-tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure at 4.5 to 5.0 kPa. The mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), cardiac output (CO), continuous cardiac index (CI), systemic vascular resistance (SVR), and pulse oxygen saturation were recorded before induction (T0), when the eyelash reflex disappeared (T1), immediately after endotracheal intubation (T2), 1 min after endotracheal intubation (T3), and 5 min after endotracheal intubation (T4). The disappearance time of the eyelash reflex, injection pain, hypotension, bradycardia, hiccupping, nausea and vomiting, and other adverse events were observed.

RESULTS

The MAP, HR, CO, and CI at T1, T2, T3, and T4 were significantly higher in Group R than P, while SVR was significantly lower in Group R than P (P < 0.05). In Group P, the MAP, HR, CO, and CI were significantly lower and the SVR was significantly higher at T1, T2, T3, and T4 than at T0 (P < 0.05). Adverse events occurred in 8 (20%) patients in Group R and 22 (73%) in Group P. The total incidence of adverse events was significantly lower in Group R than P (P < 0 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Remimazolam combined with sufentanil for general anesthesia induction has the advantages of small hemodynamic fluctuations, stable circulation, and few adverse reactions, making it suitable for elderly patients with mild hypertension.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300069224, 10/03/2023).

Remimazolam versus propofol in combination with esketamine for surgical abortion: A double-blind randomized controlled trial

Remimazolam is a new benzodiazepine with a short half-life, good efficacy, and safety profiles in general anesthesia. Combining esketamine with propofol (P + E) could reduce propofol consumption and injection pain. It is, however, unclear if a low dose of remimazolam co-administrated with esketamine (R + E) is comparable to the increasingly used P + E for surgical abortion with general anesthetic. We conducted a double-blind randomized controlled trial to compare the efficacy and safety of R + E and P + E. Two hundred patients scheduled for a surgical abortion were randomized to receive remimazolam 0.3 mg/kg plus esketamine 0.3 mg/kg (R + E), and propofol 2 mg/kg plus esketamine 0.3 mg/kg (P + E). Sedative effectiveness was evaluated by measuring the time to lose consciousness (LOC), recovery time, and successful sedation rate. Safety was assessed by hemodynamics and adverse events during and postoperation. The time to LOC and recovery time in R + E was 5 s shorter and 1 min longer than that in P + E, respectively (both p < 0.001). Success sedation rate did not differ between groups (p = 0.73). Bradycardia incidence and injection site pain were less frequent in the R + E group than that in the P + E group. More rash was observed in the R + E group compared with the P + E group (32% vs. 5%, p < 0.001), but all were mild (only chest rash) and resolved subsequently. Low dose of remimazolam when combined with esketamine has favorable profiles with rapid onset and recovery, but mild hemodynamic side effects and adverse events. It can be used as an alternative for surgical abortion with general anesthetic.

Effects of remimazolam on hemodynamic changes during cardiac ablation for atrial fibrillation under general anesthesia: a propensity-score-matched retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Abrupt hemodynamic changes or life-threatening arrhythmias are frequently observed in individuals receiving anesthesia for cardiac arrhythmia ablation. Remimazolam is a novel ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine that has been associated with better hemodynamic stability than conventional anesthetic agents do. This study aimed to investigate whether remimazolam reduces vasoactive agent use compared with desflurane in individuals undergoing ablation for atrial fibrillation under general anesthesia.

METHODS

In a retrospective cohort study, we reviewed electronic medical records of adult patients who underwent ablation for atrial fibrillation under general anesthesia between July 2021 and July 2022. We divided patients into remimazolam and desflurane groups according to the principal agent used for anesthesia. The primary endpoint was the overall incidence of vasoactive agent use. We compared the groups using propensity-score matching (PSM) analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 177 patients were included-78 in the remimazolam group and 99 in the desflurane group. After PSM, 78 final patients were included in each group. The overall incidence of vasoactive agent use was significantly lower in the remimazolam group than in the desflurane group (41% vs 74% before PSM; 41% vs 73% after PSM; both, P < 0.001). The incidence rate, duration, and maximum dose of continuous vasopressor infusion were also significantly lower in the remimazolam group (P < 0.001). Use of remimazolam was not associated with increased complications after the ablation procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

General anesthesia using remimazolam vs desflurane was associated with significantly reduced vasoactive agent requirement and better hemodynamic stability without increased postoperative complications in patients undergoing ablation for atrial fibrillation.

Bibliometric Analysis of Global Trends in Remimazolam-Related Research Over the Past 15 Years: Compared with Propofol

Purpose

Although remimazolam is a popular novel anesthetic, there is a lack of data in the literature about current and future trends. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore emerging trends and potential hotspots of remimazolam research over the past 15 years through bibliometric methods.

Methods

Relevant articles on remimazolam published from 2007 to 2022 and propofol from 1997 to 2001 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Data were collected using Microsoft Excel and graphs were generated with the Bibliometrix package in R software. Visual bibliometric maps were created using VOS viewer and CiteSpace software.

Results

In total, 184 articles were included for analysis. Remimazolam-related research tended to increase, especially from 2020 to 2022. China produced the most publications (327), whereas the USA dominated in quality (h-index = 16). Among institutions, PAION Deutschland GmbH produced the most articles (Np = 21). Similar to initial research and development of propofol, the hotspots of remimazolam research have extended beyond pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to adverse reactions, clinical scenarios, specific populations, and compatible regimens, as confirmed by high numbers of common references and keywords.

Conclusion

Remimazolam research has developed rapidly over the past two years. Remimazolam can achieve faster onset and recovery, and more stable hemodynamics than midazolam or propofol, enabling gradual piloting of applications from endoscopy and general anesthesia to sedation of critical care patients; foreseeing specific population (patients with hepatic or renal impairment and reduced cardiovascular reserve, the elderly, and children) through compatible anesthetics regimens to more optimal and safe. Future studies of remimazolam are likely to include adverse reactions, effects on different organ systems, and identification of monitoring indicators.

Determination of the 50% and 95% Effective Dose of Remimazolam Combined with Propofol for Intravenous Sedation During Day-Surgery Hysteroscopy

Purpose

Remimazolam has demonstrated the potential as a valuable medication for procedural sedation. However, there were some shortcomings for higher doses of remimazolam during hysteroscopy in spite of less frequent adverse events. The aim of this study was to find the 50% and 95% effective dose (ED₅₀ and ED₉₅) of remimazolam when combined with propofol for intravenous sedation during day-surgery hysteroscopy.

Patients and Methods

Patients were randomly assigned evenly (20 per group) to one of five different dosage of remimazolam: group A (0.05mg/kg), group B (0.075mg/kg), group C (0.1mg/kg), group D (0.125mg/kg) or group E (0.15mg/kg). Intravenous injection of sufentanil 0.1µg/kg was administered before sedative medication. Intravenous anesthesia was commenced with remimazolam. Subsequently, propofol was administered at 1mg/kg and maintained at 6mg/kg/h. Success was defined when the patient did not move during cervical dilation, had sufficient sedation as judged by SE <60 and no requirement for rescue doses. The success rate, induce and average dosage of propofol, the induction time, total surgery time, recovery time, and adverse events were recorded. Estimate of ED₅₀ and ED₉₅ with 95% confidence interval (CI) was performed by probit regression.

Results

The mean (95% CI) values for ED₅₀ and ED₉₅ of remimazolam in patients were 0.09 (0.08-0.11) mg/kg and 0.21 (0.16-0.35) mg/kg, respectively. There was no difference in the induction time, total surgery time, and recovery time among groups. No serious adverse events occurred in all patients.

Conclusion

The dose-response effects of remimazolam were evaluated for intravenous sedation during hysteroscopy. A combination of remimazolam and propofol was recommended to produce stabler sedation, reduce the total dosage and have less effect on cardiovascular and respiratory depression.

Determination of the 95% effective dose of remimazolam tosylate in anesthesia induction inhibits endotracheal intubation response in senile patients

Background and Purpose: The prevalence of elderly patients prompts anesthesiologists to determine the optimal dose of medication due to the altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of this population. The present study aimed to determine the 95% effective dose (ED₉₅) of remimazolam tosylate in anesthesia induction to inhibit endotracheal intubation-related cardiovascular reaction in frail and non-frail senile patients. Methods: A prospective sequential allocation dose-finding study of remimazolam tosylate was conducted on 80 elderly patients who received general anesthesia between May and June 2022 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University. The initial dose was 0.3 mg/kg. The blood pressure and heart rate fluctuations during intubation were either <20% (negative cardiovascular response) or ≥20% (positive cardiovascular response). If positive, the dose of the next patient was increased by 0.02 mg/kg, while if negative, it was reduced by 0.02 mg/kg according to the 95:5 biased coin design (BCD). The ED₉₅ and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined using R-Foundation isotonic regression and bootstrapping methods. Results: The ED₉₅ of remimazolam tosylate to inhibit the response during tracheal intubation was 0.297 mg/kg (95% CI: 0.231-0.451 mg/kg) and 0.331 mg/kg (95% CI: 0.272-0.472 mg/kg) in frail and non-frail senile patients, respectively. Conculation and Implications: The CI of the two groups overlap, and no difference was detected in the ED₉₅ of remimazolam tosylate in inhibiting endotracheal intubation-related cardiovascular response in frail and non-frail senile patients. These results suggested that remimazolam tosylate is an optimal anesthesia inducer for all elderly patients. Clinical Trial Registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2200055709.

Efficacy of continuous intravenous remimazolam versus midazolam in the extraction of impacted wisdom teeth: protocol of a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Benzodiazepines such as midazolam are widely used to moderately sedate patients during impacted wisdom tooth extraction to reduce anxiety in outpatient surgery. This present protocol was designed to determine whether continuous intravenous remimazolam, a new ultrashort-acting benzodiazepine, produces superior postoperative recovery quality to that of midazolam in patients undergoing extraction of impacted wisdom teeth.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study is a multicentre randomised controlled trial conducted at Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing Anzhen Hospital and Beijing Shijitan Hospital in China. Approximately 150 participants undergoing extraction of impacted mandibular wisdom teeth will be randomly allocated to two groups (remimazolam and midazolam). The participants will be administered standard interventions to ensure they achieve a sedation level of III on the Ramsay sedation scale during the treatment. Preoperative and anaesthesia management and surgical techniques will be standardised for all participants. The primary outcome is recovery time for complete alertness and the secondary outcomes are anterograde amnesia during and after surgery, and interruption during operation for poor compliance or safety concerns.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has been approved by the Ethics Review Committee of Peking Union Medical College Hospital (approval number: ZS-3142), Beijing Anzhen Hospital (approval number: KS2022082) and Beijing Shijitan Hospital (approval number: 2023-4).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05350085.

Economic benefits of remimazolam compared to midazolam and propofol for procedural sedation in colonoscopies and bronchoscopies

BACKGROUND

Sedation is common practice in endoscopic procedures to suppress a patient's level of consciousness while maintaining the cardio-respiratory function. Midazolam and propofol are the sedatives most frequently used for procedural sedation at the hospitals in Scandinavia. Remimazolam is a new ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine sedative and the present analysis aimed at estimating the economic benefits of introducing remimazolam for procedural sedation in colonoscopies and bronchoscopies in hospitals in Scandinavia.

METHOD

We developed a cost model applying a micro-costing approach that comprised the cost components that are affected by differences in the efficacy of remimazolam, midazolam and propofol, and the model estimated the cost per successful colonoscopy and bronchoscopy when using remimazolam, midazolam or propofol as sedation. A micro-costing approach was applied, and the model consisted of six stages representing the journey for patients undergoing endoscopies and was informed primarily by data from clinical studies on remimazolam.

RESULTS

We found a total cost of DKK 1,200 per successful colonoscopy procedure when using remimazolam, a total cost of DKK 1,320 when using midazolam and a total cost of DKK 1,255 when using propofol. Hence, the incremental saving per successful colonoscopy procedure of using remimazolam was estimated to be DKK 120 compared to midazolam and DKK 55 compared to propofol. The total cost per successful bronchoscopy procedure when using remimazolam was DKK 1,353 and DKK 1,724 for midazolam, resulting in an incremental saving per bronchoscopy of DKK 372 when using remimazolam. Performed sensitivity analyses identified the time in recovery as the largest contributor to uncertainty in the analyses of remimazolam compared to midazolam in colonoscopies and bronchoscopies. In the comparison of remimazolam and propofol in colonoscopies, procedure time was the largest contributor to uncertainty.

CONCLUSION

We found that procedural sedation with remimazolam was associated with economically meaningful savings compared to procedural sedation with midazolam and propofol in colonoscopies and to midazolam in bronchoscopies.

The safety and efficacy of remimazolam tosylate for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in pediatric patients undergoing elective surgery: Study protocol for a multicenter, randomized, single-blind, positive-controlled clinical trial

Introduction: Remimazolam is an ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine sedative agent commonly used in general anesthesia, procedural sedation, and intensive care unit (ICU) sedation. This study aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of remimazolam versus propofol for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in preschool-age children undergoing elective surgery. Methods and analysis: In this multicenter, randomized, single-blind, positive-controlled non-inferior clinical trial, one hundred ninety-two children aged 3-6 years will be randomly allocated as a 3:1 ratio into two groups: Group R with an intravenous dose of remimazolam 0.3 mg/kg for the induction of anesthesia followed by a constant infusion rate of remimazolam 1-3 mg/kg/h to maintain anesthesia, and Group P with an intravenous dose of propofol 2.5 mg/kg for the induction of anesthesia followed by a constant infusion rate of propofol 4-12 mg/kg/h to maintain anesthesia. The primary outcome will be the rate of the successful induction and maintenance of anesthesia. The secondary outcomes will include the time to LoC, the Bispectral Index (BIS) value, awakening time, extubation time, post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge time, usage of additional sedative drugs during the induction period, usage of remedial drugs in PACU, emergence delirium, pain in PACU, behavior scores at day 3 after surgery, parental and anesthesiologists' satisfaction, and adverse events. Ethics and dissemination: This study has been approved by the ethics review boards at all participating hospitals. The Ethics Committee of the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University (Reference No. LCKY 2020-380, November 13, 2020) is the central ethics committee.

Remimazolam: A Novel Option for Procedural Sedation in High Risk Patients

PURPOSE

The purpose of this drug review was to explore the safety and efficacy of the newly approved benzodiazepine, remimazolam, in order to evaluate its place in therapy.

SUMMARY

Remimazolam has a faster onset of action and recovery time than midazolam when given as single IV doses. Additionally, it has no known CYP450 interactions that would contribute to drug-drug interactions. Patients with severe hepatic impairment may require dose titration as well as the elderly who should be closely monitored. Although remimazolam vials should be protected from light and must be reconstituted immediately before use, the reconstituted vial may be stored for later use at room temperature for up to 8 hours. Remimazolam is more expensive than current options used in practice, as such individual institutional formulary and provider preference will require review to see if its advantages are worth the additional cost and to determine its place in therapy.

CONCLUSION

Remimazolam is a novel option when choosing a benzodiazepine for procedural sedation that has pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic advantages when compared to other commonly prescribed sedatives. Remimazolam has proved superior to midazolam when analyzing drug-drug interactions, onset, and time to alertness. Remimazolam also has a shorter elimination half-life and decreased volume of distribution when compared to midazolam.

Remimazolam as the Primary Agent for Sedation During Cardiac Catheterization in Three Patients With Comorbid Cardiac Conduction Abnormalities

General anesthesia or procedural sedation may be required to ensure immobility, facilitate completion of the procedure, and ensure patient comfort during diagnostic or therapeutic procedures in the cardiac catheterization suite. Although propofol and dexmedetomidine are two of the more commonly chosen agents, concerns regarding their impact on inotropic, chronotropic or dromotropic function may limit their applicability based on underlying patient comorbid conditions. We present three patients with comorbid conditions involving pacemaker (natural or implanted) function or cardiac conduction which impacted the choice of agent for procedural sedation during procedures in the cardiac catheterization suite. Remimazolam, a novel ester-metabolized benzodiazepine, was used as the primary agent for sedation in an effort to limit detrimental effects on chronotropic and dromotropic function which may be seen with propofol or dexmedetomidine. Remimazolam's potential utility in procedural sedation is discussed, previous reports of its use are reviewed, and dosing algorithms are presented.

The difference in mean arterial pressure induced by remimazolam compared to etomidate in the presence of fentanyl at tracheal intubation: A randomized controlled trial

Background: Combined use of hypnotic and opioids during anesthesia inductions decreases blood pressure. Post-induction hypotension (PIHO) is the most common side effect of anesthesia induction. We aimed to compare the difference in mean arterial pressure (MAP) induced by remimazolam with that induced by etomidate in the presence of fentanyl at tracheal intubation. Methods: We assessed 138 adult patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-II who underwent elective urological surgery. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either remimazolam or etomidate as alterative hypnotic in the presence of fentanyl during anesthesia induction. Comparable BIS values were achieved in both groups. The primary outcome was the difference in the MAP at tracheal intubation. The secondary outcomes included the characteristics of anesthesia, surgery, and adverse effects. Results: The MAP was higher in the etomidate group than in the remimazolam group at tracheal intubation (108 [22] mmHg vs. 83 [16] mmHg; mean difference, -26; 95% confidence interval [CI], -33 to -19; p < 0.0001). Heart rate was significantly higher in the etomidate group than in the remimazolam group at tracheal intubation. The patients' condition warranted the administration of ephedrine more frequently in the remimazolam group (22%) than in the etomidate group (5%) (p = 0.0042) during anesthesia induction. The remimazolam group had a lower incidence of hypertension (0% vs. 9%, p = 0.0133), myoclonus (0% vs. 47%, p < 0.001), and tachycardia (16% vs. 35%, p = 0.0148), and a higher incidence of PIHO (42% vs. 5%, p = 0.001) than the etomidate group during anesthesia induction. Conclusion: Remimazolam was associated with lower MAP and lower heart rate compared to etomidate in the presence of fentanyl at tracheal intubation. Patients in the remimazolam group had a higher incidence of PIHO, and their condition warranted the administration of ephedrine more frequently than in the etomidate group during anesthesia induction.

Effects of opioid-free propofol or remimazolam balanced anesthesia on hypoxemia incidence in patients with obesity during gastrointestinal endoscopy: A prospective, randomized clinical trial

There are presently no consensuses on the optimal sedation strategy for obese patients during gastrointestinal endoscopy. This study aim to explore the effects of opioid-free propofol or remimazolam balanced anesthesia on hypoxemia incidence in patients with obesity. A total of 264 patients were randomized to remimazolam + esketamine group (group R) or propofol + esketamine group (group P). Anesthesia in group P was administrated by propofol, esketamine and in group R by remimazolam, esketamine. The primary outcome was incidence of hypoxemia. Secondary outcomes were the time to loss of consciousness (LoC) and to recovery and the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative adverse reactions. We found the incidence of mild hypoxemia in group R was similar to that in group P (14.2% vs. 11.5%, p = 0.396). The incidence of severe hypoxemia in group R was significantly lower than Group P (4.2% vs. 9.2%, p = 0.019). The time to LoC in group R was longer than group P [Median (interquartile range, IQR): 53 s (45 to 61) vs. 50 s (42 to 54), p = 0.001]. The time to recovery from anesthesia in group R was less than group P [Median (IQR): 48 min (41 to 58) vs. 55.5 min (46 to 67), p<0.001]. There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events (p > 0.05 for all). We concluded that compared with propofol combined with esketamine, remimazolam combined with esketamine can reduce the incidence of severe hypoxemia during gastrointestinal endoscopy in obese patients. Clinical Trial Registration: www.chictr.org.cn, Identifier: ChiCTR2200065575.

Efficacy and safety of remimazolam-based sedation for intensive care unit patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Remimazolam is a novel ultra-short-acting sedative, but its safety and adverse events (AEs) in high-risk patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting remain unknown.

METHODS

This was a single-center, retrospective study that compared remimazolam to propofol and midazolam in patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The primary outcome was the incidence of treatment-related AEs. The secondary outcomes were the time to extubation, the length of ICU stay, and the average cost of sedative per case.

RESULTS

Of the 88 patients analyzed, 47 were treated with remimazolam (mean dose, 7.90±4.84 mg), and 41 were treated with propofol (21.19±17.98 mg) or midazolam (3.08±2.17 mg). There was no statistically significant difference in the average duration of the endoscopic procedure (35.89±13.37 min vs. 44.51±21.68 min, P=0.133) or the time to extubation (15.00±9.75 h vs. 20.59±18.71 h, P=0.211) in the remimazolam group (group I) compared to the propofol or midazolam group (group II). ICU stays (5.40±2.93 d vs. 4.63±3.31 d, P=0.072) and treatment-related AEs (48.61% vs. 51.38%, P=0.056) were similar between groups. The average cost of sedative per case was significantly lower in the group I than in the group II (RMB 16.07±10.58 yuan vs. RMB 24.37±15.46 yuan, P=0.016).

CONCLUSION

Remimazolam-based sedation was noninferior to the classic sedatives and had lower average cost per case, indicating that it may be used as a promising sedative for high-risk patients during endoscopic procedures in the ICU setting.

Effect of remimazolam tosilate versus etomidate on hemodynamics in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Patients with a history of cardiac disease are prone to develop cardiovascular adverse events such as hypotension, hypertension, and tachycardia during anesthesia induction. Therefore, hemodynamic stability is one of the most important concerns for induction of anesthesia in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Remimazolam tosilate is a new, ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine agent, with the advantages of rapid onset, rapid offset, and minimal cardiorespiratory depression. We aim to compare the effect of remimazolam tosilate and etomidate on hemodynamics during anesthesia induction in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery.

METHODS/DESIGN

The trial is a prospective, randomized, double-blinded, controlled, single-center trial to compare the effect of remimazolam tosilate and etomidate on hemodynamics in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery. One hundred seventeen patients undergoing selective valve replacement surgery between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2023, will be enrolled and randomly allocated into one of three groups: low-dose remimazolam group (Group LR), high-dose remimazolam group (Group HR), or etomidate group (Group E). The primary outcome is hemodynamic fluctuations during anesthesia induction (the difference between mean arterial pressure [MAP] to baseline, ▴MAP; and the difference between maximum or minimum heart rate [HR] and baseline, ▴HR). Secondary outcomes include the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events (hypotension, severe bradycardia, hypertension, tachycardia, and arrhythmia), the cumulative doses of vasoactive drugs used per patient, incidence and degree of injection pain and myoclonus, blood glucose values, and vital signs at different time points.

DISCUSSION

This research will determine the effectiveness and safety of remimazolam tosilate induction on hemodynamics in patients undergoing valve replacement surgery.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

www.chictr.org .cn identifier ChiCTR2100052535 . Registered on 17th Dec 2021, http://www.chictr.org.cn/ ).