[Plasma catecholamine level and clinical parameters--quality criteria for premedication in childhood].

Stress hormones noradrenaline and adrenaline were measured in plasma before and after premedication to objectivate the anxiolytic potency of different premedication methods in children. In addition indirect signs of sympathoadrenergic activity (heart rate and blood pressure) as well as children's behavior and reaction to face mask were documented. Each group consisted of 16 children (aged 3 to 15 years). One group was prepared only psychologically, the second group received 0.1 mg/kg midazolam intravenously and the third group was given 1 mg/kg promethazine orally. Blood pressure and heart rate decreased after premedication, mainly in the midazolam group. After mask exposition in all groups noradrenaline and adrenaline levels increased with the exception of adrenaline in the midazolam-group, where the levels remained low. Mask acceptance and anxiolysis were better in the midazolam-group than in other groups. Reduction in heart rate and blood pressure, catecholamines in plasma, anxiolysis and a high mask acceptance indicate that intravenous administration of midazolam is very effective in premedicating children.