What is the main risk of over-sedation in patients during endoscopy?

The main risk of over-sedation during endoscopy is respiratory depression. This occurs when the sedative medications reduce the respiratory drive, leading to inadequate ventilation and oxygenation. Patients may experience shallow breathing or have difficulty maintaining their airways, which can progress to serious complications, such as hypoxia or respiratory arrest. This risk is particularly heightened in patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions or those who are older, as their physiology may already be compromised.

While increased anxiety, excessive vomiting, and high blood pressure can be associated with sedation and the overall procedure, they do not carry the same immediate life-threatening implications as respiratory depression. Managing appropriate sedation levels is crucial to ensure patient safety and effective procedural outcomes. This highlights the importance of careful monitoring and adjustment of sedation dosages during endoscopic procedures.