Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 3/24/2009

Question
I have to have conscious sedation for an upcoming surgical procedure and I am terrified of having conscious sedation.  Anesthesia of any sort (except local) has always been my #1 biggest fear.

I don't want my memory to be erased, as I hear is common with Versed.  However, I know I am going to need the anti-anxiety properties of a drug like Versed, as I am very anxious about the procedure.

If I were to get a small amount of Versed--like 1 mg.--do you think it's likely that a small amount would cause amnesia of the procedure?  Would a small enough amount such as this amount still take away the anxiety?  It's terrifying to me to wake up in recovery with no knowledge of the procedure.  On the other hand, I know I need some help with the anxiety.

How about Demerol?  Would that be a better choice?

Answer
Demerol is a narcotic and has no anxiolytic effects so that would be a bad choice. All of the anti-anxiety meds are likely to cause amnesia. For some, 1 mg is enough, for others, 5 mg may not have any amnestic effects. There is nothing wrong with amnesia of the procedure. Versed will not erase your memory of anything before the procedure. Many people a nervous about the amnesia but personally, if it is an unpleasant procedure, why do I want to remember the details. If you are so anxious about the procedure, take the Versed...you'll thank me later.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston