Clear, Safe Instructions for Using Seizure Rescue Medications

Rescue medications are fast‑acting treatments used to stop prolonged seizures or seizure clusters before they become medical emergencies. They are an essential part of many patients’ seizure action plans and can prevent unnecessary ER visits, injuries, and complications.

At Georgia Epilepsy & Neurology Institute, we provide individualized guidance on when and how to use rescue medications for children and adults.

What Are Rescue Medications?

Rescue medications are rapid‑onset antiseizure treatments designed to:

  • Stop a seizure that is lasting too long
  • Break a cluster of seizures
  • Prevent progression to status epilepticus
  • Reduce the need for emergency services

Common rescue medications include:

  • Diazepam nasal spray
  • Midazolam nasal spray
  • Rectal diazepam gel
  • Oral/ODT benzodiazepines (in select cases)

Your neurologist will determine which option is safest and most effective for you or your child.

When to Use Rescue Medication

Your personalized seizure action plan will specify exact criteria, but common triggers include:

  • A seizure lasting longer than X minutes (often 3–5 minutes)
  • Cluster seizures occurring close together
  • A seizure that is more intense or unusual than typical
  • A second seizure occurring before full recovery
  • Provider‑directed use for specific epilepsy syndromes

If you are unsure whether to give rescue medication, follow your seizure action plan or call 911 for guidance.

Types of Rescue Medications

Below is an overview of commonly prescribed rescue therapies. Your plan will specify the exact medication, dose, and instructions.

Diazepam Nasal Spray (Valtoco®)

A fast‑acting nasal spray used for seizure clusters.

Advantages:

  • Easy to administer
  • No need to insert anything into the mouth
  • Works quickly

Common Uses:

  • Cluster seizures
  • Prolonged focal or generalized seizures

Midazolam Nasal Spray (Nayzilam®)

A single‑use nasal spray for patients 12 years and older.

Advantages:

  • Rapid absorption
  • Simple, needle‑free administration

Common Uses:

  • Seizures lasting longer than X minutes
  • Repeated seizures without recovery

Rectal Diazepam Gel (Diastat®)

A long‑standing rescue option for young children or patients who cannot use nasal sprays.

Advantages:

  • Reliable absorption
  • Useful for patients who cannot tolerate nasal medications

Common Uses:

  • Pediatric prolonged seizures
  • Home or school settings with trained caregivers

Oral or ODT Benzodiazepines

Used in select cases when the patient is awake enough to swallow safely.

Important: These should never be given during an active convulsive seizure.

How to Administer Rescue Medication Safely

1. Stay calm and ensure safety
Move the person away from danger, ease them to the ground, and protect the head.

2. Time the seizure
Use a phone timer or watch.

3. Follow your seizure action plan
Administer the medication exactly as prescribed.

4. Monitor breathing and responsiveness
If breathing becomes difficult or the person turns blue, call 911 immediately.

5. Stay with the person until fully recovered
Provide reassurance and allow rest.

When to Call 911 After Giving Rescue Medication

Call emergency services if:

  • The seizure does not stop after rescue medication
  • Breathing becomes difficult
  • Injury occurs
  • A second dose is needed (only if directed by your neurologist)
  • The person does not return to baseline
  • You are unsure or feel unsafe

When in doubt, choose safety.

Rescue Medication Use in Schools & Community Settings

We provide school‑ready seizure action plans that include:

  • Clear rescue medication instructions
  • Dose and timing
  • Emergency criteria
  • Documentation for school nurses and staff

Training resources can be provided upon request.

Our Commitment to Safety

Rescue medications save lives. Our goal is to ensure every patient and caregiver feels confident, prepared, and supported.

We provide:

  • Personalized seizure action plans
  • Hands‑on training for families
  • Clear written instructions
  • Ongoing follow‑up and medication review

You are never alone in managing epilepsy — we are here every step of the way.