Early intervention key to improving outcomes in status epilepticus

Abstract

E arly and aggressive treatment is crucial for the effective and efficient treatment of patients presenting with status epilepticus. This message was emphasised by presenters*at a symposium, entitled ‘ Interventions in acute seizures: a focus on positive outcomes ’, at the American Society for Health-System Pharmacists Annual Meeting [ Minneapolis, US; June 1997 ]. The presenters believe that in order to improve both clinical and economic outcomes in status epilepticus: healthcare providers need to follow a predefined treatment protocol; fosphenytoin needs to play a central role in the treatment algorithm; and paramedics need to have authority to administer benzodiazepines and IM fosphenytoin in the prehospital setting.