A retrospective survey of the sedation requirements of the last 50 patients needing ventilation in a provincial Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU) showed a wide variation in regimes used. The results were more random than expected: some patients were given six drugs for control of ventilation. There was greater reliance on pancuronium than anticipated. Patients' requirements varied greatly, as did each individual's daily requirements. The need to ensure adequate sedation is emphasised.