Diazepam Rectal Gel
(dye-AZ-e-pam)
Definition | Special instructions | Administration | Dosing | Side effects | Warning signs | Additional information| Contact us
What is diazepam rectal gel?
Diazepam rectal gel (Diastat") is an anticonvulsant agent used to treat patients with epilepsy who are stabilized on regularly scheduled anti-epileptic medications, and who experience bouts of increased seizure activity. It is available in twin packs as 2.5, 5, 10, 15 or 20 mg prefilled rectal delivery systems. Each box contains lubricating jelly and directions for administration.
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Special instructions
- This medication is for rectal administration only
- You must check with your child's doctor for the exact conditions for treating with Diastat"
- You must be able to tell the difference between a cluster and ordinary seizures
- You must know how and for how long you should check your child after giving Diastat
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children
- Do not use after the expiration date on the package
- If too much medication is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-696-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately
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Administration
- Put the child on his / her side facing you, where he / she can not fall.
- Push up with thumb and pull to remove protective cover from syringe containing medication.
- Lubricate rectal tip of syringe with lubricating jelly.
- Bend child's upper leg forward.
- Separate buttocks to expose rectum.
- Gently insert syringe tip into rectum.
- Slowly count to 3 while gently pushing plunger in until it stops.
- Slowly count to 3 before removing syringe from rectum.
- Slowly count to 3 while holding buttocks together to prevent leakage.
- Keep child on side facing you. Note time medication given, and continue to observe.
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Dosing
This medication is not recommended for regular daily use to control seizures because it could lead to decreased response or drug dependence. It should be used for episodes of increased seizure activity only as directed by your doctor. This medication should not be used more than 5 times a month or more than 1 time every 5 days. The dose is based on your child's age and weight. As your child grows the dose may be changed.
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and / or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
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Side effects
This medication may cause your child to feel lightheaded, sleepy, have blurred vision, or be unable to think clearly. Have your child avoid tasks that require alertness or clear vision until you see how this medication affects him / her.
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Warning signs
Call your child's doctor if seizures continue 15 minutes after giving diazepam rectal gel, or if you are concerned by the severity of the seizure. Call the doctor if you are concerned by your child's color or breathing, or any unusual problems.
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Additional information
Stay with your child after giving diazepam rectal gel and watch for changes in breathing, color or other side effects and report them to your doctor.
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Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
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PEP 2054 II 3/93
Rev. 9/05, 8/07
