Seizures: acute management

Most seizures are self-limiting and stop spontaneously but prolonged seizures may be potentially life-threatening.

Basics

BNF recommend dose for rectal diazepam, repeated once after 10-15 minutes if necessary

Neonate 1.25 - 2.5 mg
Child 1 month - 1 year 5 mg
Child 2 years - 11 years 5 - 10 mg
Child 12 years - 17 years 10 mg
Adult 10 - 20 mg (max. 30 mg)
Elderly 10 mg (max. 15 mg)

Midazolam oromucosal solution may also be used:

Neonate 300 mcg/kg (unlicensced)
Child 1 - 2 months 300 mcg/kg (max. 2.5mg, unlicensced)
Child 3 - 11 months 2.5 mg
Child 1 - 4 years 5 mg
Child 5 - 9 years 7.5 mg
Child 10 - 17 years 10 mg
Adult 10 mg (unlicensced)