Journal of Multidisciplinary
Dental Research

Abstract

Seizure clusters, characterized by sudden, repeated seizures within a short duration, pose a significant clinical challenge requiring immediate and effective intervention to prevent progression into life-threatening status epilepticus. Traditional treatment options, such as rectal or intravenous benzodiazepines, often face limitations, including social stigma, delayed administration, and limited accessibility in home settings. Diazepam buccal film has emerged as a novel, non-invasive, and patient-friendly therapeutic option that ensures rapid drug absorption via the buccal mucosa, bypassing gastrointestinal metabolism and enabling faster seizure termination. This study undertakes a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and clinical outcomes of diazepam buccal film for managing seizure clusters. A comprehensive search of relevant clinical trials, observational studies, and case reports was conducted across major databases, focusing on outcomes such as seizure termination time, adverse effects, and patient compliance. Meta-analysis results demonstrate that diazepam buccal film significantly reduces seizure duration compared to placebo and other oral benzodiazepines, with a mean reduction time of approximately 7-10 minutes. Furthermore, safety profiles from included studies indicate that adverse effects were generally mild, including drowsiness (18%), headache (12%), and oral discomfort (9%), with no reported serious adverse events. Patient compliance was notably higher due to the convenience of administration.

Keywords: Diazepam, Buccal film, Seizure clusters, Benzodiazepines, Meta­analysis, Systematic review, Epilepsy treatment, Seizure termination, Rapid drug absorption, Status epilepticus, Acute seizure management, Pharmacokinetics, Buccal drug delivery, Non­ invasive therapy, Pediatric seizures, Refractory epilepsy, Emergency seizure treatment, Home­based seizure care, Epilepsy in adults, Seizure prevention, Therapeutic outcomes, Pharmacological interventions, Seizure duration reduction.