In addition to stopping seizures, rescue seizure medications also cause tiredness, dizziness, and slowed thinking.
They may also slow down breathing, potentially requiring medical respiratory support.
The antiseizure effects and the side effects of rescue seizure medications generally stop after a few hours.
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Ativan (lorazepam)
Ativan is a benzodiazepine.
The oral form of this medication is used for treatment of anxiety disorders.
If the seizures stop, no further administration of Ativan is recommended.
Valtoco (diazepam)
This benzodiazepine is administered as a nasal spray.
It is indicated for acute treatment of seizure clusters in patients with epilepsy 6 years of age and older.
Dosing is weight and age based.
If necessary, a second dose can be used at least 4 hours after the initial dose.
Valium (diazepam)
This oralbenzodiazepine is used in managing anxiety disorders andmuscle spasms.
Klonopin (clonazepam)
Klonopinis a benzodiazepine that is used in the treatment ofanxiety disorders.
It is also used to treat acute persistent, repetitive seizures that occur as part ofLennox-Gastaut syndromeandmyoclonic epilepsy.
The recommended dose is one 5 mg spray into one nostril.
An additional 5 mg spray can be used into the opposite nostril after 10 minutes if necessary.
Phenobarbital
Thisbarbiturate medicationinteracts with GABA to control seizures.
It is indicated for certain types of epilepsy that are typically difficult to treat, including myoclonic epilepsy.
It is available as a tablet and an oral solution.
Rescue Medications vs.
However, the injected formulations of some maintenance AEDs are sometimes used as rescue seizure medications.
Indications
Rescue medications are often used in an emergency setting, such as in the hospital.
Usually, caregivers will be given detailed instructions about dosing and timing.
Food and Drug Administration.Diastat label.
Food and Drug Administration.Valtoco label.
Food and Drug Administration.Nayzilam label.
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NEOLEV2 INVESTIGATORS.Levetiracetam versus phenobarbital for neonatal seizures: A randomized controlled Trial.Pediatrics.
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