BACKGROUND PAPER ON PARENTERAL DIAZEPAM IN SUPPORT OF

File: aaavp_01.txt
Page: 01
Total Pages: 2
SUBJECT:  BACKGROUND PAPER ON PARENTERAL DIAZEPAM IN SUPPORT OF
			DESERT

PURPOSE:  To outline the background of the requirements for parenteral
	        diazepam in support of Desert Shield.

BACKGROUND
- Studies support the efficacy of diazepam given 1 minute after agent
  exposure in preventing or ameliorating nerve agent induced
  convulsions, preventing or minimizing brain injury, decreasing
  recovery time, and decreasing mortality.

- The benefits of diazepam in nerve agent treatment were discussed with
   HQ Tac/SGPA on 13 Aug 90.

- CENTAF/SG was briefed on this information and options for procurement
   of diazepam on 14 Aug 90.

  -- Option 1:  Procure for field use FDA-approved, 10 mg pre-filled
      diazepam syringes from SPSC.
       --- 51K on hand.
       --- 5 K due in.

  -- Option 2:  Ask US Army as Executive Agent for Medical Chemical
      Defense to procure diazepam autoinjectors (using the Combopen
      container) for field use.
      --- Army/SG holds IND for this R&D effort.
      --- FDA approval for use would be required, but is expected to be
           approved.
      --- Preliminary contacts with contractor indicate 30 K
           autoinjectors could be available within 4 weeks after issue of
           an urgent, sole-source contract.

      -- Option 3:  Ask Army to procure 10 mg diazepam in flanged
          autoinjector planned for CANA (Convulsant Antidote: for Nerve Agent)
          program.
          ---- Longest lead time of 3 options.

- CENTAF/SG decided on 14 Aug to implement Option 2.

- Considering Option 1 as an interim "fix".
   -- Issue to CCP triage teams rather than individuals.
    --Each ATH has 1200 diazepam syringes available.

- Stock fund $ are available to procure these items.