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In this Article

• What is diazepam rectal (Diastat)?
• What are the possible side effects of diazepam rectal (Diastat)?
• What is the most important information I should know about diazepam rectal (Diastat)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using diazepam rectal (Diastat)?
• How should I use diazepam rectal (Diastat)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Diastat)?
• What happens if I overdose (Diastat)?
• What should I avoid while using diazepam rectal (Diastat)?
• What other drugs will affect diazepam rectal (Diastat)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using diazepam rectal (Diastat)?

Do not use this medication if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, or if you are allergic to diazepam (Valium) or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax).

Before using diazepam rectal, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• glaucoma;
• asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems;
• kidney or liver disease;
• a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or
• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use diazepam rectal.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use diazepam rectal without your doctor's consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.

Diazepam may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

The sedative effects of diazepam rectal may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly patients who take benzodiazepines. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury while you are using diazepam rectal.

Do not give this medication to a child younger than 6 months old.

How should I use diazepam rectal (Diastat)?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on the prescription label.

This medication is usually given by a caregiver to the person who is having a seizure. If you are the caregiver, make sure you know and understand all instructions for giving diazepam rectal.

This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Diazepam rectal is used in combination with other seizure medications. To best treat your condition, use all of your medications as directed by your doctor. Be sure to read the medication guide or patient instructions provided with each of your medications. Do not change your doses or medication schedule without advice from your doctor.

Diazepam rectal is not for long-term daily use to prevent seizures. Using diazepam rectal daily over long periods can actually make your seizures more frequent or more severe. You may also have withdrawal symptoms (such as tremors, stomach pain, muscle cramps, vomiting, and increased sweating) when you stop using diazepam rectal.

Do not use this medication for longer than 5 days in a row without a doctor's advice.

Diazepam may be habit-forming and this medication should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Diazepam rectal should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

Contact your doctor if this medicine seems to stop working as well in treating your symptoms.

Store diazepam rectal at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.