Status epilepticus.

Treatment of SE has improved considerably during the last decade. Mortality from SE itself should be minimal if effective treatment is delivered rapidly. Currently, the risk of complications from appropriate treatment is less than the risk of injury from additional seizures. Loading with phenytoin, 20 mg per kg, using benzodiazepam if needed, is the current treatment of choice. If seizures persist, phenobarbital 10 to 20 mg per kg should be used. If convulsive SE continues for more than 1 hour, pentobarbital coma is necessary.