Abstract
Generalized convulsive status epilepticus is a neurologic and medical emergency, with significant morbidity and mortality. First-line treatment includes administration of intravenous benzodiazepines. Second-line agents include intravenous phenytoin, phenobarbital, valproate and levetiracetam. Refractory status epilepticus necessitates the use of anesthetic agents such as pentobarbital, midazolam or propofol, with monitoring of treatment effect by continuous EEG. Nonconvulsive status epilepticus should be treated expeditiously but is not as threatening to health as convulsive status epilepticus.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.