midazolam
n. a highly potent, short-acting benzodiazepine used chiefly for the induction of anesthesia or conscious sedation for operative procedures. It is available in a form for intravenous or intramuscular administration and as a syrup for oral administration. Because of its potential to induce respiratory depression (particularly when used as a sedating agent in nonsurgical situations), its short half-life, and the need for continuous monitoring of respiratory and cardiac function, midazolam has little, if any, application in mental health settings. It has reportedly been used as a date-rape drug. U.S. trade name: Versed.