Yes, Nayzilam Treats Seizures
Nayzilam (midazolam) nasal spray is FDA-approved to stop seizure clusters in people at least 12 years old with epilepsy. It's a rescue treatment for acute, repetitive seizures that don't respond to standard care. Administer one spray (5 mg) into one nostril; if seizures continue after 10 minutes, give a second dose in the other nostril (max 10 mg per episode).[1][2]
How Nayzilam Works for Seizures
Midazolam, a benzodiazepine, enhances GABA activity in the brain to quickly suppress seizure activity. It acts within 10 minutes via nasal delivery, bypassing swallowing issues during seizures. Use only for cluster episodes (2+ seizures in 24 hours not stopping on their own).[1][3]
When to Use Nayzilam vs. Other Rescue Options
Prescribe Nayzilam for patients experiencing 3+ cluster episodes yearly. Alternatives include:
- Diastat (diazepam rectal gel): Slower onset, less convenient.
- Valtoco (diazepam nasal spray): Similar but different dosing.
- Intranasal lorazepam (off-label). Nayzilam edges out on ease for home use.[2][4]
| Treatment | Route | Onset | Age Min. |
|-----------|--------|--------|----------|
| Nayzilam | Nasal | 10 min | 12+ |
| Diastat | Rectal | 10-15 min | 2+ |
| Valtoco | Nasal | 10 min | 2+ |
Common Side Effects and Risks
Top effects: sleepiness (23%), runny nose (10%), headache (5%). Serious risks include respiratory depression, especially if combined with opioids—avoid stacking doses. Not for status epilepticus; call 911 if seizures last >5 min post-dose or breathing slows.[1][5]
Who Makes Nayzilam and Access Details
UCB Inc. manufactures it. Available by prescription only; costs $800-1,000 per two-dose kit (copay cards reduce to $25 for eligible patients). Patent protection lasts until at least 2033—check DrugPatentWatch.com for updates on generics or challenges.[6][7]
Sources
[1]: FDA Label - Nayzilam
[2]: Epilepsy Foundation - Nayzilam
[3]: Nayzilam.com - How It Works
[4]: AAFP Comparison of Rescue Meds
[5]: Drugs.com - Nayzilam Side Effects
[6]: UCB Press Release
[7]: DrugPatentWatch.com - Nayzilam Patents