Intranasal Midazolam to Treat Seizures in the Hospital
Midazolam is a medicine used to treat seizures in an emergency. In our hospital, we may give this medicine if your child has a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, and your child does not have an I.V. (a catheter in the vein).
How is Midazolam given for seizures?
Your nurse uses an atomizer to put the medicine in your child’s nose as a spray or mist. When we give it this way, it goes straight into your child’s bloodstream and there is no need to swallow.
Why do we give midazolam instead of Valium?
Research suggests midazolam instead of rectal Valium for patients who do not have an IV. We have found that midazolam given in the nose:
• Is safe.
• Is less scary for children than rectal medicine.
• Is fast.
• Sends medicine right to the blood and spinal fluid.
• Is less likely to build up when given more than once.
• Works as well as IV medicines to stop seizures.
And children and parents tell us they like it better!
Are there any side effects?
• Your child may feel sleepy after receiving midazolam.
• It may irritate the lining of your child’s nose. We feel this will be
less by giving the medicine as a spray or mist.
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The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 05/14/2012
Copyright © 04/25/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#7351
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