Increasing the resting lower oesophageal sphincter tone is an accepted method of reducing the risk of gastro-oesophageal reflux. The effect of intravenously administered flunitrazepam and diazepam on the lower oesophageal sphincter tone were studied in 16 healthy subjects. Flunitrazepam increased this tone significantly (p < 0.05) while diazepam decreased the tone, also significantly (p < 0.005). Intravenous flunitrazepam may be a valuable sedative or premedicant, especially in patients who may develop gastro-oesophageal reflux.
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