Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 3/30/2008

Question
Hello Dr. Levy,  Recently I had a colonoscopy, before the procedure I informed the doctor and the anesthesiologist I had early stage of Myasthenia Gravis.  I was allergic to muscle relaxers, anesthesia, and codeine.  This is what they gave me:  Xanax 1mg 1 and 1/2 hours before procedure, 1154 Versed 3mg and Fentenyl 75mcg: 1157 Versed 1 mg and Fentenyl 25mcg: 1202 Versed 1mg: 1206 Romazicon 2cc.I weighed 130lbs age 50.  I am questioning the dosage as they gave my healthy 50yr old husband the same dosage minus  1mg of Versed and he weighs 90-100lbs more than I do.  They have sent a letter stating "anesthesia is not weight bearing and they gave me the correct dosage".  I wanting to know if they are correct.  If not, what websites or manuals would give information to back my assumptions?  Thank you so very much for time...Jan

Answer
While we use weight as a starting point, they are correct that dosage is not entirely weight dependent. We titrate to effect (by the times you list, so did they). The Romazicon was used to reverse the effects of the Versed (which either means that you were too sleepy or they just wanted you to wake up faster. The fact that you came through the procedure well speaks against an overdose.

Ronald Levy, MD
Associate Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston