Convulsive status epilepsy: is there a role for thiopentone-induced narcosis?

Convulsive status epilepsy is a medical emergency with significant mortality and morbidity. This retrospective survey reports the use of non-anaesthetic doses of thiopentone, given either by intravenous or rectal infusion. The regime was effective in controlling convulsive status without significant complications. It is suggested that this regime can be used safely when standard doses of diazepam (or clonazepam), and/or phenytoin, fail to effect immediate control of convulsive status, and before anaesthetic agents are administered.