What are home rescue medications?

Home rescue medications — sometimes called acute seizure medications or emergency anti-seizure medications — are drugs prescribed by veterinarians for owners to administer at home when a seizure meets certain criteria. They are designed to stop a prolonged seizure or interrupt a cluster seizure before it escalates to a veterinary emergency.

Not every pet with epilepsy will be prescribed a rescue medication. They are typically considered for pets with a history of cluster seizures, prolonged seizures, or status epilepticus — where the risk of a dangerous seizure event is established and the time needed to reach an emergency clinic could be critical.

Diazepam (rectal)

Rectal diazepam was historically the most commonly used home rescue medication in dogs. It is a benzodiazepine that acts quickly to suppress seizure activity. It is administered via the rectum — absorbed through the rectal mucosa into the bloodstream — which allows it to be given during an active seizure without placing hands near the pet's mouth. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions on dose and the circumstances under which it should be used.

Midazolam (intranasal or buccal)

Midazolam — another benzodiazepine — can be administered intranasally (into the nostril) or into the buccal space (between the cheek and gum). Research suggests that intranasal midazolam is rapidly absorbed and may be as effective as intravenous diazepam for stopping seizures. It is increasingly used as a home rescue option because it is easier and safer to administer than rectal diazepam, and well tolerated by most pets.

When is rescue medication typically indicated?

Your veterinarian will establish specific criteria for your pet based on their seizure history. Common thresholds discussed in veterinary guidelines include:

• A seizure lasting longer than a specified duration (often 3–5 minutes)
• A second seizure occurring within a defined time window after the first
• Failure to regain normal consciousness between seizures

These thresholds are individualized. Ask your vet specifically: "Under what circumstances should I give the rescue medication, and when should I still go directly to the emergency vet?"

Rescue medication does not replace emergency vet care in all situations

Home rescue medication is a first-line intervention — not a replacement for emergency veterinary care in all cluster or prolonged seizure situations. It is designed to provide rapid treatment while transport to a veterinary clinic is arranged, or to interrupt seizures that would otherwise escalate. Your vet will advise specifically on when to give the medication, when to proceed to the emergency clinic after giving it, and when to go directly to emergency care without using rescue medication first.