A survey of 1,201 German anaesthesia departments was replied by 60%, For 8
different indications, benzodiazepines were used in up to 95%, most frequen
tly midazolam, Anticholinergics (generally atropine) were used only by 16%,
opioids predominantly in painful emergencies - then in 78% of adults vs, 4
5% of children - while other drugs were only rarely reportedly used. In 21%
of adults scheduled for out-patient operation, no premedication was used.
Oral premedication was used in up to 84% of adults and rectal in up to 22%
of children. The results of this study highlight a complete change of preme
dication habits in Germany in comparison to previous decades.