Question 1

What is Valtoco?

Accepted Answer

Valtoco is a prescription medication containing diazepam, which belongs to the benzodiazepine class. It works by slowing down activity in the central nervous system to help control seizure activity.

This medication is intended for use during specific episodes rather than as a daily preventative treatment. It belongs to a group of medicines known as central nervous system depressants.

Question 2

What is Valtoco used for?

Accepted Answer

Valtoco is used to treat seizure clusters.

Question 3

How does Valtoco work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Valtoco contains diazepam, a medication in the benzodiazepine family. It works by increasing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical messenger in the brain that helps regulate nerve signals.

GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which means it acts as a natural brake for the central nervous system. During a seizure, nerve cells in the brain experience a sudden surge of excessive electrical activity. By making GABA more effective, Valtoco helps to:

Slow down overactive nerve signals.

Calm the electrical bursts that cause seizures.

Prevent the spread of seizure activity throughout the brain.

The nasal spray format allows the medication to be absorbed through the thin lining of the nasal passages. This delivery method helps the drug reach the bloodstream and the brain quickly, which is necessary for treating acute seizure clusters that are different from a person's usual seizure pattern.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Valtoco?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Valtoco is diazepam .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Valtoco?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Valtoco may include:

Sleepiness

Headache

Nasal discomfort

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Valtoco?

Accepted Answer

Valtoco belongs to the benzodiazepine drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Valtoco and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Use

Valtoco is administered into the nose. It is intended for use only during episodes of increased seizure activity. A healthcare provider will demonstrate the correct way to use the device before the first dose is needed.

Each nasal spray device contains only one dose and cannot be reused. Do not test or prime the device before use, as this will waste the medication.

Ensure the person is in a safe position.

Remove the device from its packaging.

Insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril.

Press the plunger firmly to release the medication.

The person does not need to breathe in deeply for the medication to work.

Frequency and Dosing

This medication is used only when a seizure cluster occurs. If the seizures do not stop after the first dose, a second dose may be administered if specifically directed by a healthcare provider. There are limits on how many doses can be used for a single episode and how often the medication can be used over a period of time.

If you miss a dose of this medication, contact a healthcare provider for instructions. If seizures continue after the maximum allowed doses have been given, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Question 8

Is Valtoco safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

Valtoco contains diazepam, which can cause harm to an unborn baby. Using this medication during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, may increase the risk of birth defects. If used during the later stages of pregnancy, the infant may experience withdrawal symptoms or other complications after birth.

Newborns exposed to diazepam shortly before birth may show signs of:

Respiratory depression (slowed breathing)

Feeding difficulties

Low muscle tone, often called floppy infant syndrome

Excessive sedation or sleepiness

Breastfeeding

Diazepam passes into breast milk and can be transferred to a nursing infant. This may cause the baby to become unusually sleepy or have trouble feeding. Because of these potential side effects, breastfeeding is generally not recommended while using Valtoco. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to discuss the best way to feed their baby while managing their condition.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Valtoco come in?

Accepted Answer

Valtoco is available as a nasal spray. It is provided as a liquid solution for administration into the nose.

Nasal Spray: A single-use, disposable device designed to deliver the medication.

The medication is supplied in blister packs containing the spray devices. Each device is intended to be used once and then thrown away.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Valtoco?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Valtoco (diazepam nasal spray) was approved by the FDA in January 2020. It is indicated for the acute treatment of intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity, such as seizure clusters or acute repetitive seizures, in patients with epilepsy. These episodes must be distinct from the patient's usual seizure pattern. It is approved for use in adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older.

Boxed Warning

The FDA requires a boxed warning for Valtoco and other benzodiazepines due to several serious safety risks:

Risks from Concomitant Use with Opioids: Using benzodiazepines with opioid medications may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression (slowed breathing), coma, and death.

Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction: The use of benzodiazepines exposes users to risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose or death.

Physical Dependence and Withdrawal Reactions: Continued use of benzodiazepines can lead to physical dependence. Stopping the medication suddenly or reducing the dose too quickly can cause life-threatening withdrawal reactions, including seizures.

Regulatory Classification

Valtoco is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance because it has a potential for abuse and may lead to physical or psychological dependence. Healthcare providers are advised to monitor patients for signs of misuse or addiction during treatment.

Question 11

What should I know about Valtoco and cost?

Accepted Answer

Insurance and Pharmacy Factors

The amount you pay for Valtoco is primarily determined by your health insurance plan. Different insurance providers have varying copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance rates. Some plans may also require prior authorization, meaning your doctor must get approval from the insurance company before the medication is covered.

Prices can also vary between different pharmacies. It may be helpful to compare costs at local retail pharmacies or check if your insurance offers a lower-cost mail-order pharmacy option.

Brand-Name Status

Valtoco is a brand-name medication, and there is currently no generic version available. Brand-name drugs are typically more expensive than generic versions. The lack of a generic alternative means the price is set by the manufacturer without competition from other versions of the same drug.

Financial Assistance

The manufacturer of Valtoco may offer a savings card or patient assistance program to help reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible patients. These programs are often available to individuals with commercial insurance or those who meet certain financial criteria. You can speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to find out if you qualify for these programs or other cost-saving options.

Valtoco

Medication Quick Facts

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

Found an Error?