Treatment of out-of-hospital status epilepticus with diazepam rectal gel.
Intravenous access cannot always be promptly obtained when treating status epilepticus outside the hospital. We compared the efficacy and safety of diazepam rectal gel to IV lorazepam in our long-term care facility for adults with developmental disabilities. Diazepam rectal gel was given more quickly and reliably, reducing total seizure time, potential neuronal injury and other complications. A treatment protocol for treating status epilepticus with diazepam rectal gel is given.
Fitzgerald
Brian J
BJ
Department of Neurology and the Regional Epilepsy Center, Fircrest and School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle 98155, USA. bfitz@u.washington.edu
Okos
Anthony J
AJ
Miller
John W
JW
D000285:Administration, Rectal; D000328:Adult; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D040561:Assisted Living Facilities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003975:Diazepam / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004632:Emergency Medical Services; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D008140:Lorazepam / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D019989:Persons with Intellectual Disabilities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D013226:Status Epilepticus / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D008140:Lorazepam; D003975:Diazepam