IV sedation is not the same as a general anaesthetic. You are relaxed and drowsy, you may drift off to sleep, and you may remember parts of the procedure. It is given and monitored by a trained sedationist, such as an anaesthetist, and you need to fast and have an adult take you home afterwards.
How deep sedation can be
ANZCA’s guideline on procedural sedation (PG09) describes sedation in levels, defined by how you respond:
- Minimal sedation: you are relaxed and can talk and respond normally.
- Moderate (conscious) sedation: you are drowsy and may drift off, but you respond when spoken to or touched lightly. Your breathing usually continues without help.
Deeper levels, where you respond only to strong stimulation or not at all, are managed as anaesthesia, with the same standards of care. Your anaesthetist will tell you how deep your sedation is likely to be. It is not possible to promise that you will remember nothing.
Sedation compared with a general anaesthetic
| IV sedation | General anaesthetic | |
|---|---|---|
| Awareness | Drowsy; may drift off; may remember parts | Unconscious and unaware |
| Breathing | Usually on your own, with oxygen | Usually supported by the anaesthetist |
| Often used for | Some dental, endoscopic and minor surgical procedures | Most major operations, and some shorter procedures |
| Fasting | Usually the same as for a general anaesthetic | Required |
| Going home | Adult escort; no driving for at least 24 hours | Adult escort; no driving for at least 24 hours |
Who gives the sedation
ANZCA’s guideline says that when anaesthetic medicines are used for sedation, a separate person with the right skills and experience should be responsible for the sedation, so the person doing the procedure can concentrate on it. For people who are unwell or having complex procedures, ANZCA advises that the sedationist should be an anaesthetist.
Preparing for IV sedation
- Fast as instructed. For IV sedation, the usual rule is no food for 6 hours and clear fluids only until 2 hours before, unless you are told otherwise. Read fasting before anaesthesia.
- Tell your anaesthetist about all your medicines, including weekly injections for diabetes or weight management.
- Arrange a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you.
- Do not drive, drink alcohol or make important decisions for at least 24 hours.
Risks
Drowsiness, a feeling of being “spaced out”, and mild nausea are common and pass. Sedation can slow your breathing or lower your blood pressure, which is why you are monitored throughout and given oxygen. Serious complications are rare. Your anaesthetist will discuss the risks that are relevant to you.
Sources
- ANZCA. PG09(G) Guideline on procedural sedation. Dec 2023.
- Better Health Channel (Victorian Department of Health). Dental anxiety and phobia. Reviewed 22 Oct 2025.
- ANZCA. Types of anaesthesia. Accessed 2 Nov 2026.
- ANZCA. PG07 Guideline on pre-anaesthesia consultation and patient preparation (2024; Appendix 1, Fasting, revised June 2026). June 2024; Appendix 1 June 2026.
- healthdirect Australia. General anaesthetic. Last reviewed Dec 2025.
- Written by
- Altitude Creative, health content team, on behalf of Dr Walid Aly
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In an emergency, call 000. This information is general and does not replace advice from your treating practitioner.