Propofol vs Midazolam As the Initial Sedation Strategy for Mechanically Ventilated Patients

Background

Propofol and midazolam are the most common sedative agents used in critical settings. Propofol and midazolam might have different mortality rates after sedation administration. Some studies mention that propofol is associated with a lower mortality rate than midazolam in mechanically ventilated patients, but other studies have contradicting results. This study aims to compare the 28-day mortality of propofol versus midazolam for patients undergoing mechanical ventilation in the National Guard Hospital Health Affairs (NGHA)-Western Region (WR).

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted at (NGHA-WR) from March 2016 to July 2022. The inclusion criteria were those mechanically ventilated patients aged 18 years or older who were admitted to ICU, where they were given either propofol or midazolam as the initial sedative agent. Those who signed DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) or were contraindicated to sedation, such as allergy, were excluded from the study. Data were retrospectively retrieved and obtained from the Hospital Information System (HIS-BestCare, Saudi-Korean Health Informatics Company, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia) and the Office of Data Intelligence.

Results

There is a significant difference between the type of sedation and the 28-day mortality rate. Midazolam was associated with higher rates of mortality – 104 (47.93%) when compared to propofol – three (14.29%). Also, patients who used midazolam had longer durations of ICU stay compared to propofol, with a mean number of 19.23 days vs 7.55 days, respectively.

Conclusion

There is a significant difference regarding the 28-day mortality between patients who were given propofol or midazolam as an initial sedative agent for mechanical ventilation ≥ 24 hours. Moreover, the use of propofol is associated with fewer days of being intubated or being in ICU when compared to midazolam.