SAAD Digest 

September 2026
Volume: 42
Issue: 2

DOI: 10.63507/SRZH2301

Title: Service evaluation of the use of remimazolam for intravenous sedation in a community special care dentistry clinic

Author(s): P. Shah, A. O’Halloran

Abstract:
Introduction
Remimazolam is an ultra-short acting benzodiazepine with emerging use in dentistry. There is limited data on its use for patients with additional needs in primary care.

Aim
This study evaluates the use of remimazolam sedation for dentistry in a primary care specialist setting.

Methods
Remimazolam cases were evaluated from a pilot study carried out in a community dental clinic from January to March 2025.

Results
Over the course of three months twenty episodes of remimazolam sedation were carried out. Treatment was possible in all cases, however, in two cases only basic dentistry was possible due to limited co-operation. The mean dose of remimazolam administered was 11 mg. In 90% of cases treatment commenced within four minutes of administration of remimazolam. In 85% of cases, patients had recovered from the sedation within five minutes of completion of treatment. One patient required supplemental oxygen and elective reversal. Positive feedback was received from patients and carers.

Conclusion
Remimazolam may be a good alternative drug to midazolam and can be beneficial for special care cohorts of patients. Ongoing evaluation of remimazolam is needed to further explore its benefits.

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