Sedation in children and young people

Information for the public

Some treatments may not be suitable for your child, depending on their exact circumstances. If you have questions about specific treatments and options covered in this information, please talk to a member of your healthcare team.

Sedation will make your child feel sleepy and calm. It helps to reduce fear and anxiety, control pain or help the person stay still during a procedure. It is used for a range of painful or unpleasant procedures in children and young people. These procedures could be to help diagnose a condition, or for treatment such as dental work. If the procedure your child is having is painful, sedation can help to reduce the pain. Sedation involves an injection, swallowing a liquid or breathing gas through a mask.