What rescue meds are commonly prescribed for home use to stop a seizure, and how are they administered?

• A. Benzodiazepines such as diazepam rectal gel or buccal/mucosal midazolam; administered by a caregiver per prescribed instructions.
• B. Oral glucose tablets.
• C. Antibiotics.
• D. Insulin.

Answer: (A)

Rescue medications for home use to stop a seizure are fast-acting benzodiazepines, such as diazepam rectal gel or buccal/mucosal midazolam, and they’re given by a caregiver according to the prescription. These drugs are chosen because they rapidly quiet abnormal brain activity during a seizure and can be administered outside a hospital setting without IV access.

How they’re used matters: the dose is tailored to the person’s age and weight and the caregiver administers it exactly as directed, using the rectal applicator for diazepam gel or the buccal/mucosal route for midazolam. They’re typically employed when a seizure lasts more than a few minutes or when multiple seizures occur without full recovery between them.

After giving the medication, stay with the person, protect from harm, monitor breathing, and avoid giving anything by mouth until they’re fully awake. Call emergency services if the seizure continues beyond the time specified in the instructions or if a second dose is needed and the seizure persists.

Other options listed are not used to stop a seizure in the moment: they address different conditions (hypoglycemia, infection, diabetes) and do not act to halt seizures.