Benzodiazepines are used for premedication and for conscious sedation during surgery. Following short–term therapy (1-2 doses) for these indications, it is considered that breastfeeding can be resumed as soon as the mother has recovered sufficiently from the procedure. Lorazepam, midazolam and temazepam are shorter-acting benzodiazepines than diazepam.
Dexmedetomidine is a non-benzodiazepine sedative licensed for the maintenance of sedation during intensive care.
Similar considerations apply to both narcotic (alfentanil, fentanyl) and non-narcotic (ketorolac and parecoxib) analgesics used in association with surgery.
Consider possible risks associated with other drugs used in association with peri-operative sedatives and analgesics.