Products
Valtoco diazepam nasal spray was approved in the United States in 2020. The benzodiazepine diazepam has been available in other dosage forms since the 1960s.
Structure and properties
Diazepam (C16H13ClN2O, Mr = 284.7 g/mol) is a lipophilic benzodiazepine. It exists as a white crystalline powder that is very sparingly soluble in water.
Effects
Diazepam (ATC N05BA01) has antianxiety, muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant, sedative, and sleep-inducing properties. The effects are due to binding to GABAA receptors, resulting in enhancement of GABAergic inhibition. The active ingredient is very well absorbed into the bloodstream through the nasal mucosa.
Indications
For acute therapy of seizures in patients with epilepsy.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered intranasally.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Diazepam is a substrate of CYP2C19 and CYP3A4. Centrally depressant drugs (eg, opioids) and alcohol may potentiate adverse effects.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include drowsiness, headache, and nasal discomfort. Benzodiazepines can be abused as depressant intoxicants and become addictive.
