Diazepam

(Valium)

Classification:        

Anticonvulsant

Sedative

Benzodiazepine

Action:                      

Depresses the central nervous system

Relaxes skeletal muscles

Decreases patient recall (amnesic effect)

Suppress seizure activity 

Indications:             

Seizures (status epilepticus)

   Sedation prior to:

      synchronized cardioversion

      transcutaneous pacing

      advanced airway placement (RSI,NT)

Organophosphate poisoning

Contraindications:

Shock/hypotension

Head injury

Acute alcohol intoxication

Adverse Effects:     

Cardiovascular           

tachycardia

hypotension

bradycardia 

Neurological                                         

slurred speech

dizziness

bradycardia             

drowsiness

blurred vision

Respiratory                                        

apnea                                                           depression   

Administration:                  

      Seizure Activity:     5-10mg slow IV/IO/MADD @5mg/minute. (titrate to suppress seizure activity) Maximum of 20mg.

      Sedation:       5-15mg IV/IO/MADD. (titrate to adequate sedation) Maximum of 20mg.

     Anxiety:       2-5mg IM.  Maximum of 20 mg

Severe Organophosphate Poisoning:  10mg IM, one time.

Pediatrics:               

Seizure:  

0.3mg/kg slow IV/IO (titrate to suppress seizure             activity) May repeat every 5 minutes to a maximum of 10 mg.                                                          

0.5mg/kg PR every 10-15 minutes. Maximum three doses.

Onset:            

Duration:  

         Onset:      1-5 minutes

Duration:       2-3 hours

Precautions:

Monitor and prepare to support both airway and ventilations.

May cause significant respiratory depression.

Note:  

May be given for focal seizures, but only if patient has an                altered level of consciousness.