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Midazolam is a benzodiazepine used for its sedative, anti-anxiety, and muscle relaxant properties. It is primarily used as a sedative before surgery and to stop seizures. This medication is a controlled substance.
It is used “off label” or “extra label” in animals. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully.
Midazolam comes in injectable, liquid suspension, and nasal spray forms.
This medication will take effect quickly. This medication is short-acting, meaning that effects will last 1–6 hours, depending on dose and administration method, though effects may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.
Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations on missed doses. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Midazolam may cause the following side effects:
The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:
Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment. Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.
This medication should be AVOIDED in animals with:
This medication should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets:
Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with midazolam, including:
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Midazolam is a controlled substance, which means that it has been designated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as having a potential for diversion to people other than the patient it was prescribed for. Use of a controlled substance in any person or animal other than that for which it is prescribed is illegal. Therefore, this medication should be stored in a locked cabinet or safe that cannot be easily moved, with access limited to only those that need to administer the medication. Monitor the amount of medication remaining to ensure the expected amount is present.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on Jun 21, 2024.
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