Update on pharmacological management of procedural sedation for children

Abstract

Purpose of review: The review provides an update on pharmacological techniques for procedural sedation for children outside the operating room.

Recent findings: An increasing number of studies of propofol, ketamine, nitrous oxide, dexmedetomidine, and intranasal administration of drugs for procedural sedation of children continue to be reported.

Summary: Propofol and ketamine are commonly used for procedural sedation in children and the use of dexmedetomidine and nitrous oxide is increasing. Although the intravenous route remains the mainstay; intranasal drug administration is increasingly used for anxiolysis and moderate sedation.