Efficacy and Mechanisms of Midazolam in Inhibiting Cancer Progression

Researchers have found in a new study that  midazolam has the potential to impede cancer progression and decrease cancer cell survival. The new systematic review has been published in the Indian Journal of Anaesthesia. 

The systematic review evaluated the potential role of midazolam in inhibiting cancer progression and reducing cancer cell survival. The review included 19 preclinical studies, which predominantly focused on in vitro experiments and some combination of in vitro and in vivo studies. The findings suggested that midazolam demonstrated potential anticancer properties, as it delayed cancer progression in 89% of the studies and reduced cancer cell survival in 63% of the studies. These effects were attributed to midazolam's ability to induce apoptosis and inhibit cancer cell proliferation, with demonstrated antimetastatic properties. The review also highlighted that midazolam might alter the efficacy of traditional anticancer agents, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy. However, it noted that the mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear due to the short-term nature of the in vitro and in vivo studies.

Limitations and Recommendations for Further Studies on Midazolam's Role in Cancer

The paper acknowledged conflicting literature on midazolam's role in cancer progression and the need for further investigation into its potential clinical implications. It highlighted the limitations of the included studies, such as the absence of clinical context, variability in experimental protocols and the need for additional clinical research to determine the appropriate dosage and assess the efficacy and safety of midazolam. The review recommended future studies to investigate the mechanisms underlying midazolam's effects on tumor growth and interactions with other cancer treatments. It also called for clinical trials to evaluate the impact of midazolam on cancer outcomes in patients undergoing cancer surgery or related procedures.

Conclusion of the Systematic Review on Midazolam's Potential in Cancer Therapy

In summary, the systematic review suggested that midazolam has the potential to impede cancer progression and decrease cancer cell survival based on preclinical evidence, although its clinical relevance and application require further investigation.

Reference -

Sethi, Ansh†; Rezk, Amal1,†; Couban, Rachel2; Chowdhury, Tumul1. Role of midazolam on cancer progression/survival - An updated systematic review. Indian Journal of Anaesthesia 67(11):p 951-961, November 2023. | DOI: 10.4103/ija.ija_731_23