Medications

Conscious sedation is used for endoscopy procedures. This means the level of sedation
given will leave a person comfortable but arousable. Two drugs are combined for most
exams. A narcotic, usually Fentanyl, is administered into the vein to relieve discomfort.
A second drug, Versed, also may be administered into the vein. Versed is used to provide
relief of anxiety and promote relaxation. The sedation effects can last through the rest of the day.
People are encouraged to rest for the remainder of the day. After being sedated, a person
will not be allowed to drive home, take a bus or cab. A responsible adult must drive the
patient home or accompany the patient home by bus or cab. The reponsible adult will
need to sign a form of responsibility prior to the patient's discharge.