Pharmacology · single question
A patient in the dental chair has involuntary muscle movements. Which medication is most appropriate for management?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Diazepam (Benzodiazepine)
A) Diazepam — CORRECT.
Involuntary muscle movements (tremors, spasms, or seizure activity in the dental chair) are best managed acutely with benzodiazepines. Diazepam (IV/IM) is the drug of choice for acute seizure management and muscle relaxation due to its rapid CNS depressant effect via GABA-A receptor enhancement.
B) Nitrous oxide: Has anxiolytic and analgesic properties but does not stop involuntary movements or seizures.
C) Phenytoin: An antiepileptic drug but NOT for acute/emergency management of seizures in a dental setting — it is for chronic seizure prevention.
D) Naloxone: Reverses opioid overdose — not indicated for muscle movement disorders.
Involuntary muscle movements (tremors, spasms, or seizure activity in the dental chair) are best managed acutely with benzodiazepines. Diazepam (IV/IM) is the drug of choice for acute seizure management and muscle relaxation due to its rapid CNS depressant effect via GABA-A receptor enhancement.
B) Nitrous oxide: Has anxiolytic and analgesic properties but does not stop involuntary movements or seizures.
C) Phenytoin: An antiepileptic drug but NOT for acute/emergency management of seizures in a dental setting — it is for chronic seizure prevention.
D) Naloxone: Reverses opioid overdose — not indicated for muscle movement disorders.