Diazepam for eclamptic seizures

Q. Why does JRCALC say it is ok to give diazepam for suspected eclamptic seizures? The NICE guideline NG133: Hypertension in pregnancy: diagnosis and management says do not use diazepam, phenytoin or other anticonvulsants as an alternative to magnesium sulfate in women with eclampsia.

A. Eclampsia is one of the most dangerous complications of pregnancy, and is a significant cause of maternal mortality. Convulsions are usually self-limiting, but may be severe and repeated. If magnesium is available it can be given. If magnesium is not available then if the patient convulses for longer than 2-3 minutes or has a second or subsequent convulsion, then it is appropriate for diazepam to be administered IV/PR to try and stop the seizure (refer to Diazepam for dosages and information).