Onset of action of diazepam
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Quick answer
Diazepam onset depends on route:
- IV: about 1-3 minutes
- Rectal: about 5-10 minutes
- Oral: usually 15-60 minutes (peak clinical effect may take 1-2 hours)
- IM: absorption is variable and generally not preferred for urgent effect
For acute seizures or severe agitation, IV diazepam acts very rapidly but requires monitoring because of risk of respiratory depression.
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