Remimazolam Use in Cardiac Anesthesia: A Narrative Review

J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth. 2024 Dec;38(12):3179-3187. doi: 10.1053/j.jvca.2024.07.045. Epub 2024 Jul 31.

Abstract

Remimazolam, a novel ultra-short-acting intravenous benzodiazepine, has garnered recent attention for its use as a general anesthetic. This narrative review aims to summarize and analyze the available literature on the effects of remimazolam use in cardiac surgical patients, including its effects on hemodynamics, safety in patients with baseline myocardial dysfunction, and impact on postoperative management including time to emergence and extubation. Finally, there is discussion regarding potential drawbacks of adopting remimazolam as a routine anesthetic for cardiac surgery.

Keywords: cardiac anesthesia; hemodynamics; remimazolam.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anesthesia, Cardiac Procedures* / methods
  • Benzodiazepines* / administration & dosage
  • Cardiac Surgical Procedures / methods
  • Humans
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / administration & dosage

Substances

  • remimazolam
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives