Home use of rectal diazepam for cluster and prolonged seizures: efficacy, adverse reactions, quality of life, and cost analysis.
From 1982 through 1987, 128 families, who were instructed in the use of rectally administered diazepam (R-DZP) for the treatment of severe epileptic seizures, were surveyed. Sixty-seven families returned questionnaires and met inclusion/exclusion criteria; the results were used to analyze the medical, psychosocial, and economic impact of this program during the first year following instruction. Twenty-six families did not use R-DZP, primarily because of patient improvement. Among families using R-DZP, a total of 428 doses were administered to 41 children. R-DZP was effective in controlling seizures in 85% of patients. Adverse reactions usually were mild, consisting of drowsiness and/or behavioral changes. Compared to the year prior to instruction, emergency room visits decreased in both R-DZP-treated and -nontreated children; however, cost-savings were greater for the R-DZP group ($1,039.00 vs $420.00 per patient per year). Improvements in quality of life associated with the availability of R-DZP were observed by 58% of users and 27% of nonusers which included improved management of their children's seizures, increased flexibility in family activities, and greater peace of mind. R-DZP appears to be a practical method in the effective treatment of severe seizures at home.
Kriel
R L
RL
Dept. of Neurology, Univ. of Minnesota, Mpls. 55455.
Cloyd
J C
JC
Hadsall
R S
RS
Carlson
A M
AM
Floren
K L
KL
Jones-Saete
C M
CM
D000285:Administration, Rectal; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003363:Cost Control; D003975:Diazepam / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006701:Home Nursing / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D011788:Quality of Life; D012640:Seizures / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D013226:Status Epilepticus / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology
D003975:Diazepam