Does Oral Premedication Increase the Risk of Gastric Aspiration?

Abstract

In a clinical study including 40 patients who underwent elective gynecological surgery, the quantity and acidity of the gastric contents were compared for patients premedicated with diazepam (Apozepam) i.m. and orally. A significant difference was found with regard to both the quantity and acidity of the gastric fluid. The volume of gastric fluid was smaller after oral than after i.m. premedication with diazepam (1.5 vs. 20 ml, respectively). The acidity of the gastric fluid was also less after oral than after i.m. premedication (pH 2.4 vs. 1.8).