In a randomized double-blind, parallel groups study, 39 patients undergoing surgical removal of impacted third molar teeth received either temazepam 40 mg by mouth (as soft gelatin capsules) followed at 35 min by i.v. saline, or oral placebo followed at 35 min by i.v. diazepam 10 mg (Diazemuls). Rapid onset of significant anxiolytic activity and psychomotor depression was seen following temazepam, while the pattern and duration of postoperative sedation measured with standard psychometric tests, were similar for both treatments. Ratings by the surgeon and by the patients indicated that sedation following the two treatments was comparable. No significant cardiovascular complications were found with either treatment. The findings indicate that rapidly acting oral benzodiazepines such as temazepam provide safe, effective alternatives to i.v. diazepam for sedation in outpatients undergoing minor surgical procedures.