What is Diastat Pediatric ?
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). Diastat pediatric (for use in the rectum) is used for the treatment of cluster seizures in people who have epilepsy and are also taking other seizure medications. This medicine should not be used daily to prevent seizures. Diastat pediatric can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Diastat Pediatric
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling to lips, face, tongue or throat - seek medical assistance immediately! Diazepam may slow or stop breathing, particularly if you've recently consumed alcohol or opioid medications. If you have long pauses in your breathing, blue lips, or are hard to awaken, someone caring for you may need to seek immediate medical attention.
Diastat pediatric should be stopped immediately if:
- New or worsening seizures;
- Unusual changes in mood or behavior
- Suicide or thoughts of harming yourself
- Confusion, hallucinations;
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety is a feeling of excitement, anger, or restlessness.
Dizziness or drowsiness may last longer for older adults. Avoid falling or sustaining an injury by exercising caution.
Diastat pediatric can cause the following side effects:
- Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, feeling nervous;
- Problems with muscle coordination or movement
- Flushing (sudden heat, redness, or tingly sensation);
- Stomach pain, diarrhea;
- Rash.
If you experience any of the following symptoms after stopping diazepam: abnormal muscle movements, increased activity or talkativeness, sudden and severe mood or behavioral changes, confusion, hallucinations or seizures, or suicidal thoughts, you should seek medical attention immediately. Some withdrawal symptoms can last for up to 12 or more months after abruptly stopping the medicine. If you experience persistent anxiety, depressive symptoms, or problems with memory, thinking, or sleeping, tell your doctor. There may be other side effects.Call your doctor if experiencing side effects; alternatively, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088 if reporting side effects is necessary.
Warnings
Diazepam may slow or stop breathing, particularly if you've recently taken an opioid or consumed alcohol. Misusing this medication may result in addiction, overdosage and/or death; store the medicine securely so others cannot gain access. Ask your doctor before stopping diazepam. If you suddenly stop taking the medication after long-term use, you may experience life-threatening symptoms. Some withdrawal symptoms can last for up to 12 or more months. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms like abnormal muscle movements, increased activity or talkativeness, sudden and severe mood or behavioral changes, confusion, hallucinations or seizures, or thoughts of suicide. This medication does not treat all types of seizures.. If you're a caregiver, do not administer this medicine until you understand how to identify a seizure for which Diastat Pediatric should be used.
Before you take this drug
Diastat Pediatric should not be used if you have an allergy to diazepam (Valium). Diastat Pediatric may not work for you if your glaucoma is
Inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- Glaucoma;
- lung disease or asthma?
- Liver or kidney disease
- Drug or alcohol abuse;
- Depression, an emotional condition or thoughts or behavior related to suicide are common mental illnesses accompanied by suicidal behaviors or thoughts.
Unwanted pregnancies may pose dangers to their unborn offspring. You should inform your healthcare provider as early as possible regarding any pregnancies as life-threatening withdrawal symptoms could develop and require treatment over a long period. Never take or stop seizure medications without first consulting with your physician, since a seizure could pose severe risks to both mother and unborn child, but may outweigh them when considering its potential benefits in terms of prevention. Informing them as soon as you fall pregnant could save lives - don't delay. Do not breastfeed for a few days after stopping Diastat Pediatric. You should ask your doctor to tell you when it is safe to start breastfeeding again. Use by children under 2 years of age is not recommended.
How to take Diastat Pediatric ?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication. Never take diazepam more than prescribed or for a longer period of time. If you are feeling a greater urge to take more diazepam, tell your doctor. Do not share this medication with anyone, especially if they have a history of drug abuse. Misuse can lead to addiction, overdose, or death. Store the medicine in a place where others cannot reach it.As it is illegal to sell or give away medicine without authorization. Diastat Pediatric can be given to a person who is having an epileptic seizure by their caregiver. Make sure that a member of your household who is responsible knows how and where to administer the medication. Diastat Pediatric does not treat all types of seizures. Do not give this medication unless you are familiar with the symptoms that indicate a seizure. Stay with the patient for at least four hours after giving Diastat pediatric. Be alert for any changes in breathing patterns or other side effects.
Get emergency medical help if:
- The seizure continues after 15 minutes.
- The seizure is not the same as the usual seizures of the person;
- The seizures are more frequent or more severe.
- The person is suffering from breathing problems, blue or pale skin, or other serious conditions.
Weight is used to determine the dose of diazepam (especially for children and adolescents). Your medication requirements could change with weight fluctuations and changes to body composition, including an increase or decrease. Read all the instructions and medication guides that you receive. You should not stop taking diazepam before consulting your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking the medication after long-term usage, you may experience increased seizures or withdrawal symptoms that can be life-threatening. If this medication does not seem to be working as well for treating seizures, call your doctor. Diastat Pediatric should not be used to prevent seizures on a daily basis. Your seizures may worsen or occur more frequently. This medicine should not be used more than five times per month or to treat one episode every five days. Store your medicine at room temperature, away from moisture, light, and heat. Store your medication in a safe place so that no one else can misuse it.
After administering a dose of rectal diazepam, empty the syringe in a toilet, flush it, or rinse the syringe down the drain. The syringe should not be reused. It should be thrown away in a place where pets and children cannot reach it.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Diastat Pediatric can be used as needed. You should not take any missed doses if you have a regular dosing schedule. Never use two doses in one go.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. A diazepam overdose can be fatal when taken with alcohol, opioid medicines, or other drugs that cause drowsiness and slow breathing. Overdose symptoms include confusion, drowsiness, or muscle weakness.
What should be avoided?
Don't drink alcohol. Alcohol can have dangerous side effects. Diastat Pediatric can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid driving or other hazardous activities until you are sure of how they will affect you. Dizziness and drowsiness may cause accidents or serious injuries.
Interaction with other drug
Do not use diazepam in combination with drugs that cause sleepiness or slow breathing. This can lead to dangerous side effects, even death. Diazepam can be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.
