Since seizure emergencies are infrequent, most people with epilepsy will not need to use any treatment other than their daily amount of seizure medicine. However, sometimes seizures occur in different patterns or more often than normal. Stopping seizures early in these situations is the key to preventing a seizure emergency.

When to intervene with an ‘as needed’ medicine is the most important question and may be different for each person. You need to know your typical type and pattern of seizures, and be able to recognize when seizures are occurring that are not typical for you.

As part of being prepared, ask your health care provider if ‘as needed’ medicines are right for you and specifically when they should be used.

General situations for 'as needed' medicines

• Seizures occur that are different than your usual type or pattern.
• Seizures that last longer than typical events.
• Seizure clusters that are different than usual – for example when more occur than normal or in a shorter period of time.
• Breakthrough seizures occur at high-risk times – for example during medicine changes or when sick.

• Talk to your doctor about when to use ‘as needed’ rescue meds.
• Know your typical type and pattern of seizures and when you may be at risk for seizure emergencies.
• Don’t use ‘as needed’ rescue meds in place of calling for emergency medical help.

Continue to Types of Medicine for 'As Needed' Use

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, MD and Patricia O. Shafer, RN, MN.
Last Reviewed:5/25/07

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