How is Valtoco (diazepam nasal spray) administered?
Valtoco is administered as a nasal spray placed into the nose by the patient or caregiver. It is not taken by mouth. The spray is given using the device provided in the Valtoco package, and the dose is delivered into one or both nostrils depending on the prescribed dosing instructions.
How do you give Valtoco using the nasal spray device?
To administer Valtoco, the caregiver/patient:
- Opens the device as directed in the instructions for that specific Valtoco package
- Places the nozzle into the nostril as instructed
- Activates the device so the dose sprays into the nose
- Gives any additional spray(s) only if the prescribed dose requires more than one nostril or more than one spray, following the package directions
What’s important to know about dosing timing?
Valtoco is typically used as an acute rescue medicine for seizure clusters or prolonged seizures. In practice, that means it should be given as soon as the seizure pattern that triggers rescue treatment occurs, using the dosing instructions provided by the prescriber and the product labeling.
What should patients/caregivers do if the first dose isn’t enough?
If seizures continue after the first administered rescue dose, the next step depends on the exact product labeling and the prescriber’s plan for repeat dosing (including whether a second dose is allowed and after how long). Follow the instructions given by the clinician and the instructions in the package.
Are there any “do not” administration issues?
Common safety themes for any rescue benzodiazepine administration include using only the device supplied for Valtoco and following the prescriber’s dose exactly. If you’re unsure how many sprays or which nostrils to use for your specific dose, check the labeled instructions for your prescribed Valtoco strength and follow the clinician’s rescue plan.
Sources
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