Diazepam (Pediatric)
A benzodiazepine that enhances the effect of GABA. The rectal gel (Diastat) is commonly used by parents for 'rescue' dosing during a seizure at home.
Dosage by Body Weight
Oral: 0.1 mg/kg to 0.3 mg/kg. Rectal: 0.5 mg/kg for young children. Highly sedative.
- Body Weight
- 10-15 kg
- Dose
- 2 mg to 5 mg (Rectal)
- Frequency
- Single dose (Rescue)
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor for slow breathing after administration.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-15 kg | 2 mg to 5 mg (Rectal) | Single dose (Rescue) | Monitor for slow breathing after administration. |
Formulation
Purpose
Short-term treatment of anxiety, muscle spasms, and status epilepticus (prolonged seizures).
Generic Name
DiazepamBranded Drug Names
Diazepam (Pediatric) is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
UNSAFEDiazepam (Pediatric): Alcohol can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, breathing problems, or seizure risk. Avoid alcohol unless a specialist says otherwise.
Pregnancy
CAUTIONDiazepam (Pediatric): Use in pregnancy only under specialist advice because seizure control and fetal risks must be carefully balanced.
Breast Feeding
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDDiazepam (Pediatric): May pass into breast milk and can cause infant drowsiness or feeding issues. Use only with healthcare provider guidance.
Driving
CAUTIONDiazepam (Pediatric): Can cause drowsiness, slowed reaction time, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
Liver
CAUTIONDiazepam (Pediatric): Some anti-seizure medicines can affect liver function and may require blood tests or dose adjustments.
Kidney
CAUTIONDiazepam (Pediatric): Some anti-seizure medicines require dose adjustment in kidney impairment. Use under medical supervision.