Frequently Asked Questions About DIASTAT® AcuDial™ (diazepam rectal gel)

Below are common questions that people with seizures and their caregivers have asked about DIASTAT.

What is DIASTAT AcuDial?

When should DIASTAT AcuDial be given?

How soon should seizures stop after giving DIASTAT AcuDial?

Why should I use DIASTAT AcuDial? Isn't it better to go to the emergency room?

What if I have seizures and need DIASTAT AcuDial when I am away from home?

Does the caregiver giving DIASTAT AcuDial need special training?

If DIASTAT AcuDial stops my seizures, do I still need to take my other seizure medications?

What is the right dose for me?

Why is DIASTAT AcuDial administered rectally?

What kinds of side effects can I expect?

When should I call for emergency help?

What should I do if I have more questions?


What is DIASTAT® AcuDial™?

DIASTAT AcuDial is a unique rectal gel formulation of diazepam. It is the only FDA-approved, at-home medication for the treatment of serial or cluster seizures, sometimes referred to as acute repetitive seizures. DIASTAT AcuDial is an at-home way to help control breakthrough seizure episodes (acute repetitive seizures).


When should DIASTAT AcuDial be given?

DIASTAT AcuDial should be given for acute repetitive seizures. During these episodes, one seizure ends and another follows soon after. This pattern is difficult to stop and often results in a trip to the emergency room (ER). By giving DIASTAT AcuDial, you may stop the seizure and avoid a trip to the ER.

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How soon should seizures stop after giving DIASTAT AcuDial?

The seizures usually stop within 5 to 15 minutes. If seizures continue, your caregiver should call for medical help.

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Why should I use DIASTAT AcuDial? Isn't it better to go to the emergency room?

Making trips to the ER every time you have a seizure can be very stressful for you and your family. It can also be costly. Families of people who use DIASTAT AcuDial have had positive experiences. They are able to control these episodes with less stress on everyone involved. By using DIASTAT AcuDial, you can stop seizures quickly and safely.

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What if I have seizures and need DIASTAT AcuDial when I am away from home?

DIASTAT AcuDial can be taken with you, wherever you go—to the office, on vacation, any time you are away from home. It does not need to be refrigerated. DIASTAT AcuDial should not be kept where it might get too hot or too cold, like the trunk of your car. Keep DIASTAT AcuDial in a place that is easy to get to when you need it.

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Does the caregiver giving DIASTAT AcuDial need special training?

The caregiver should read and thoroughly understand the dosing instructions prior to administration. Your healthcare provider will give this information to you and your caregiver. After giving DIASTAT AcuDial, your caregiver must stay with you to make sure that you are well enough to return to your usual activities.

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If DIASTAT AcuDial stops my seizures, do I still need to take my other seizure medications?

Yes. This cannot take the place of your other medications. Do not stop taking any other medications without first speaking with your doctor.

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What is the right dose for me?

Your doctor has prescribed the right dose for you. Let your doctor know if your weight or height changes, because your dose may need to be changed.

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Why is DIASTAT AcuDial administered rectally?

When you are experiencing a seizure, taking medications can be difficult. You may not be able to swallow a pill, or it might cause you to choke. Other medications may require administration by a medical professional. This medication can be given by your caregiver, wherever you are. Rectal absorption is rapid, safe, and effective. In fact, because of its rapid absorption, rectal administration is very common worldwide.

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What kinds of side effects can I expect?

Your medication has been safely used in children and adults ranging in age from 2 years to 76 years. The most common side effect is sleepiness. Other less frequent side effects include skin rash, dizziness, pain, headache, stuffy nose, abdominal pain, nervousness, diarrhea, feeling unsteady or clumsy, and wheezing. You or your caregiver should tell your doctor about any side effects that you experience.

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When should I call for emergency help?

Your doctor or nurse may have told you about situations when medical help may be needed. For instance, if, after DIASTAT AcuDial is given:
  • Seizure(s) continues 15 minutes after giving DIASTAT AcuDial
  • Seizure behavior is different from other episodes
  • You are alarmed by the frequency or severity of the seizure(s)
  • You are alarmed by the color or breathing of the person
  • The person is having unusual or serious problems

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What should I do if I have more questions?

Always speak with your healthcare provider about any questions you may have. To make sure you don't forget your questions, you may want to write them down and bring them with you to your next appointment. You can print out a list of questions from our online Doctor Discussion Guide. This website has been designed to provide you with information about Seizure Preparedness Plans and DIASTAT AcuDial; it does not address every aspect of treatment. If you have questions or concerns not answered here, please talk with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

DIASTAT® AcuDial™ (diazepam rectal gel) is a gel formulation of diazepam intended for rectal administration in the management of selected, refractory patients with epilepsy, on stable regimens of AEDs, who require intermittent use of diazepam to control bouts of increased seizure activity for patients 2 years and older.

In clinical trials with DIASTAT®, the most frequent side effect was somnolence (23%). Less frequent adverse events reported were dizziness, headache, pain, vasodilation, diarrhea, ataxia, euphoria, incoordination, asthma, rash, abdominal pain, nervousness and rhinitis (1%-5%). Please see full DIASTAT AcuDial Prescribing Information.