Diazepam

Benzodiazepines (BDZ)
Commercial name: Valium

In glycol solution

Dose:

• No PO: Liver necrosis in cats
• IV: 0.2-0.4 mg/kg (in propylene glycol)
• For status epilepticus treatment:
  • Bolus:
    • IV, Rectal: 0.5-2 mg/kg - Cmax in 4-6 min
    • Intranasal: 0.5 mg/kg
  • CRI:
    • 0.1-0.5 mg/kg/h + Parenteral maintenance with Anticonvulsives drug (AED)

Pharmacokinetics:

• Metabolized into active metabolites: Desmethyldiazepam = Nordiazepam (with CYP450) then Oxazepam (After glucuronic acid conjugation)
  • Prolonged effect and hepatotoxicity
• Excreted via kidneys
• Shorter action in dogs compared to cats
  • Mainly works in cats

Indication:
Anticonvulsives: First choice for status epilepticus
Behavior Modifiers
SedatoHypnotics
Appetite Stimulants
Counter the adverse CNS effects of Nitroimidazoles

Adverse effects:

• Most hepatotoxic Benzodiazepines (BDZ): Give Silymarin (Hepathoprotectives)
  • DON’T give PO > Liver necrosis