Understanding Epilepsy in Social Care: When and How to Administer Buccal Midazolam
Today is National Purple Day, an annual occasion where people around the world wear purple for epilepsy awareness. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder and affects more than 50 million individuals globally.
There are many types of epilepsy. It is important to initiate conversations and raise awareness of the training and resources that are available to support caregivers, healthcare professionals and people with epilepsy.
To mark National Purple Day 2025, we have created a comprehensive guide on the dosage and administration of buccal midazolam in adults, addressing various challenges that may arise during its use.
Understanding Midazolam Buccal Administration
Buccal midazolam is part of a group of medicines called benzodiazepine, a class of drugs known for their sedative, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant properties.
It is administered via the buccal route. Buccal Midazolam is placed between the gum and the cheek, allowing for rapid absorption through the oral mucosa. This method is particularly beneficial during seizures when oral administration is not possible.
Why Use Buccal Midazolam?
- Fast-acting: Buccal administration allows for quicker absorption compared to oral routes.
- Non-invasive: It does not require intravenous access, making it more convenient and less distressing for the patient.
- Ease of use: It can be administered by caregivers or family members, not just healthcare professionals.
Do You have to be Trained to Administer Buccal Midazolam?
Yes, proper training is essential before administering Buccal Midazolam. While the buccal route may seem straightforward, it requires a clear understanding of correct dosage, administration techniques, and emergency protocols to ensure patient safety and effectiveness.
It is vital to be familiar with medical guidelines, dosage calculations, and administration methods to ensure safe and effective use. Training also helps to determine when buccal midazolam is the right choice and when other interventions may be required.
Determining the Correct Dose
Patient’s weight: Dosage may vary based on body weight.
Severity of seizures: More severe cases, such as prolonged seizures, may require higher doses.
Medical history: Consideration of other conditions and concurrent medications.
What Difficulties Might Occur When Administering Buccal Midazolam?
- Resistance from the patient: During a seizure, patients may be uncooperative or unable to open their mouth.
- Spillage of medication: Ensure the entire dose is delivered to avoid under-dosing.
- Aspiration risk: Proper positioning of the patient is crucial to prevent choking or aspiration.
Considerations for Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare providers must ensure that caregivers and family members are adequately trained in administering buccal midazolam, and have finished the relevant medication administration course. Thorough education on dosage, administration technique, and safety precautions is essential.
Training Courses and Support
The Epilepsy Including Buccal Midazolam Training course delivered by Care Business Associate Training equips healthcare professionals and caregivers with the understanding and skills to respond to epileptic seizures. Our course content includes:
- Recognising seizure types and appropriate responses.
- Safe administration of Buccal Midazolam in line with care plans.
- Ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and best practices.
How long does training last? The training session is 3 hours long and can be completed online, making it accessible to care organisations and caregivers across the UK.
It is advised that our ILEA-compliant Epilepsy and Buccal Midazolam Training should be updated every three years.
Conclusion
Buccal midazolam is an effective and efficient solution for managing seizures in adults, especially in emergency situations. By following the appropriate dosage and administration guidelines, caregivers and healthcare professionals can ensure timely and safe seizure management.
We are here to support your training needs! To learn more about Epilepsy and Buccal Midazolam Training, get in touch with our team today.
For enquiries call us on 01772 816 922
Or email sales@cba-training.co.uk