NCT05121324 · Stanford University
Pediatric Dose Optimization for Seizures in Emergency Medical Services
(PediDOSE)
What this study is about
The Pediatric Dose Optimization for Seizures in Emergency Medical Services (PediDOSE) study is designed to improve how paramedics treat seizures in children on ambulances. Seizures are one of the most common reasons why people call an ambulance for a child, and paramedics typically administer midazolam to stop the seizure.
View original scientific description
The Pediatric Dose Optimization for Seizures in Emergency Medical Services (PediDOSE) study is designed to improve how paramedics treat seizures in children on ambulances. Seizures are one of the most common reasons why people call an ambulance for a child, and paramedics typically administer midazolam to stop the seizure. One-third of children with active seizures on ambulances arrive at emergency departments still seizing.
Interventions
DRUG
Standardized seizure protocol
The intervention is a standardized seizure protocol for paramedics that prioritizes administration of only intramuscular (IM) or intranasal (IN) midazolam, up to 2 doses given 5 minutes apart, with age-based dosing as follows: 6-16 months (1.25 mg); 17 months-5 years (2.5 mg); 6-11 years (5 mg); 12-13 years (10 mg).
DRUG
Conventional seizure protocol
The control is the EMS agency's current seizure protocol, based on conventional calculation-based dosing. These vary from one EMS agency to the other with respect to recommended midazolam doses ranging from 0.05-0.3 mg/kg and with multiple route choices listed, including intravenous, intraosseous, intramuscular, intranasal, and rectal. for paramedics that prioritizes administration of only intramuscular (IM) or intranasal (IN) midazolam, up to 2 doses given 5 minutes apart, with age-based dosing as follows: 6-16 months (1.25 mg); 17 months-5 years (2.5 mg); 6-11 years (5 mg); 12-13 years (10 mg).
Primary outcome measures
Seizing on emergency department arrival
Time frame: Between arrival to the emergency department and 10 minutes after arrival
Binary assessment of whether the participant is seizing or not upon arrival to the emergency department, as measured by either a rapid response electroencephalogram (preferred) or clinical judgement (alternative).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Witnessed by the paramedic to be actively seizing, regardless of seizure type or duration; AND
- Under the care of a paramedic; AND
- Transported by an EMS agency participating in the study
Exclusion criteria
- A prior history of a benzodiazepine allergy; OR
- Known or presumed pregnancy; OR
- Severe growth restriction based on the paramedic's subjective assessment
Where
- Tucson, Arizona
- Los Angeles, California
- Sacramento, California
- San Francisco, California
- Aurora, Colorado
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Buffalo, New York
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Cincinnati, Ohio
And 8 more locations — see the full list below.
Collaborators
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), University of Utah, Baylor College of Medicine
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 30, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations