Side effects from Diastat are seldom a major problem. It belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines (BEN-zo-di-AZ-ah-peens). Other benzodiazepines used to treat epilepsy include Klonopin and Frisium. All these medications lower (depress) brain activity. This effect is more likely to be a problem if the patient is using other substances or medications with a similar effect, such as alcohol, phenobarbital, Klonopin, or some painkillers and antidepressants. This effect may also be increased in patients who take Depakote or Depakene. The result is that about one-quarter of patients are unusually sleepy after the end of the seizure.

Besides sleepiness, other side effects may include:

• dizziness
• headache
• poor coordination
• pain
• nervousness
• slowed speech
• diarrhea
• rash

If you notice problems like any of these after using Diastat, it's probably a good idea to discuss them with the doctor or nurse. In many cases, however, these problems may result from the seizure rather than the Diastat.

Be sure to read about the possible serious side effects of Diastat so you will be aware of symptoms that might indicate the beginning of a serious reaction. These serious problems are very rare but everyone who uses this medicine should at least be aware of them.

Reviewed February 2004 by Steven C. Schachter, MD, epilepsy.com Editorial Board.