Valtoco Nasal Spray Effects: Typical, Mild-to-Severe Adverse Reactions
Valtoco, a nasal spray used for seizure clusters, is a brand-name drug containing the active ingredient diazepam. It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, but it is not a narcotic.
Common side effects of Valtoco include somnolence (sleepiness), headache, and nasal discomfort. However, it's important to note that less common but serious side effects can occur, including central nervous system depression, metabolic acidosis, and gasping respirations, collectively referred to as "gasping syndrome"—a dangerous condition marked by difficulty breathing and declining CNS function.
Pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers should discuss the use of Valtoco with their doctor, as they may be recommended to enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry.
The "gasping syndrome" is linked to the benzyl alcohol preservative in the formulation, though the precise minimum toxic amount is unknown. As a precaution, suspected serious adverse reactions should be reported to the manufacturer or FDA.
In addition to these side effects, Valtoco is a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its active ingredient, diazepam. Other serious side effects include symptoms of central nervous system (CNS) depression, such as excessive sleepiness, slurred speech, shortness of breath, dizziness, and lack of coordination.
If you have a history of substance use disorder, including alcohol use disorder, it's essential to inform your doctor before they prescribe Valtoco, as certain factors increase the risks of misuse and addiction.
Misuse of and addiction to Valtoco can lead to overdose or be fatal. Symptoms of Valtoco withdrawal may include blurred vision, dizziness, digestive side effects, hallucinations, high blood pressure, worsened seizures, and more.
It's crucial to discuss your health history with your doctor before starting Valtoco, as it may not be the right treatment option if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. The risk of serious harm if taken with opioids can lead to respiratory depression and extreme sleepiness, which may result in coma or be fatal.
If you or someone else experiences severe breathing difficulties or unusual sedation while using Valtoco, seek emergency medical attention immediately. If you have an allergic reaction to Valtoco, call your doctor right away. If symptoms are serious and you think it's a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
For those in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support: call or text the 988 Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org, text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or call 911 or your local emergency services number if you feel safe to do so.
If you develop serious side effects while receiving Valtoco, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life-threatening or you think you're having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Valtoco is generally considered safe for most older adults, but doctors may prescribe a lower dosage for them due to increased risk of side effects like sleepiness or lack of coordination. The side effects of Valtoco in children are similar to those in adults.
Valtoco has three boxed warnings: the risk of serious harm if taken with opioids, risks of misuse and addiction, and risks of dependence and withdrawal. If you experience withdrawal symptoms after stopping Valtoco, seek medical help immediately.
Mild side effects that people using Valtoco have reported include headache, sleepiness, diarrhea, lack of coordination, changes in the sense of taste, dizziness, nasal side effects, and mild allergic reaction.
Both Valtoco and Diastat, another drug for seizures, share similar side effects, but Valtoco may also cause nasal discomfort and nosebleeds. For more information about Valtoco, including its uses and side effects, refer to the drug's prescribing information. If you develop a side effect while taking Valtoco and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch or call 800-FDA-1088.
