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Updated: Aug 17, 2026

A Novel Approach for the Administration of Medications and Fluids in Emergency Scenarios and Settings
Published on: November 9, 2016
Respiratory adverse events associated with diazepam rectal gel
John M Pellock1, Shlomo Shinnar
1Department of Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia, Richmond 23298-0211, USA. jpellock@hsc.vcu.edu
Abstract:
The authors reviewed respiratory adverse events and deaths spontaneously reported to Xcel Pharmaceuticals associated with diazepam rectal gel. Over 2 million doses have been prescribed. The authors identified nine respiratory adverse events and three deaths. The respiratory events associated with prolonged seizures had a good outcome. The deaths occurred in the context of a prolonged seizure and respiratory depression was not the main symptom. When used as recommended, diazepam rectal gel has a low rate of serious morbidity or mortality.
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