Flumazenil

Flumazenil is used to reverse the sedative effects of benzodiazepine drugs, a class of drugs used to treat chronic anxiety. This medication reverses the benzos’ effects so that doctors can safely perform surgery and other procedures that sedative drugs may interfere with.

Side Effects/Warnings

This medication can cause seizures, breathing problems, confusion, fear, panic attacks and fast heart rate; these symptoms are similar to withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines and are most likely to occur in people who have been on anti-anxiety medication for a long period of time. Less severe side effects include headaches, blurred vision, pain and irritation at the injection site, itching or tingling under the skin.