A colonoscopy is a test used to assess the lining of the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as tumors, polyps, ulcers, inflammation and areas of bleeding. It may cause discomfort, so anesthetics and narcotic pain killers are usually administered prior to the procedure. A narcotic pain reliever such as Demerol is usually administered together with anesthetics to make patients more comfortable.
Midazolam and Demerol
Midazolam, also known by the brand name Versed, is a benzodiazepine drug used to provide anesthesia during colonoscopy. Demerol, a brand-name narcotic pain reliever known generically as meperidine, may also be administered to patients during colonoscopy procedure in order to reduce pain. Common side effects of midazolam include decreased breathing, decreased blood pressure, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, short-term memory, slurred speech, dry mouth and nausea and vomiting. Common side effects of Demerol include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, shallow breathing and slow heart rate. Patients should avoid driving and operating machinery for the first 24 hours after colonoscopy in order to allow anesthetics and Demerol sedative effect to wear off.
Diprivan and Demerol
Drugs.com states that diprivan, or Propofol, is a general anesthetic used to maintain anesthesia during painful procedures such as colonoscopy. Demerol is also administered to patients who experience pain during colonoscopy. Common side effects of diprivan include drowsiness, dizziness, impaired reflexes and lack of coordination.
Sevoflurane and Demerol
According to Drugs.com, sevoflurane, or Ultane, is an anesthetic drugs used to cause loss of consciousness during colonoscopy and other painful procedures. Sevoflurane causes loss of consciousness by depressing the central nervous system. Patients sedated with sevoflurane during colonoscopy may also be given demerol, a narcotic pain reliever. Demerol is used to relieve pain during colonoscopy. Common side effects of sevoflurane include dizziness, drowsiness, coughing, increased salivation, agitation lightheadedness, nausea and vomiting.
