EFNS guideline on the management of status epilepticus

Long-term outcomes of adult cryptogenic febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES)

Background

Cryptogenic febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES) is a rare but catastrophic encephalopathic condition. We aimed to investigate the long-term outcome in adult cryptogenic FIRES.

Methods

This was a retrospective study based on the prospective database in the neuro-intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital in China. Consecutive adult patients with cryptogenic FIRES between July 2007 to December 2021 were included. Long-term outcomes included function independence, the development of drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), remote recurrent status epilepticus (SE), anti-seizure medications (ASMs), and changes in the brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Results

A total of 11 adult patients with cryptogenic FIRES were identified from 270 patients with SE. Four (36%) patients died in the hospital, with three of them withdrawing treatments, and one patient died 12 months after discharge. After the follow-up ranging from 12 to 112 months, 6 (55%) patients were still alive, and all of them achieved functional independence [modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0-3]. 45% (5/11) patients developed DRE, 18% (2/11) had remote recurrent SE, and 55% (6/11) were on polytherapy with ASMs at the last follow-up. Most of the patients with initial normal or abnormal MRI had abnormalities in the hippocampus at follow-up, and most of the other MRI abnormalities found in the acute stage disappeared over time.

Conclusion

The outcome of adult cryptogenic FIRES is daunting. More than one-third of patients die in the hospital. Survivors of cryptogenic FIRES may regain functional independence, but they usually develop DRE and receive polytherapy of ASMs for a long time.

Termination of seizures in the paediatric age group, best benzodiazepine and route of administration: A network meta-analysis

This network meta-analysis aims to compare various benzodiazepines and their route of administration using the data published exclusively in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Two thousand two hundred sixty-three children presenting with an episode of seizure to ER or to a paramedic where they were administered a benzodiazepine as the first-line treatment were included. All the outcomes were measured for their mean with 95% CI and rank probability. The primary outcome was the number of successful seizure cessation. Secondary outcomes were the time interval between drug administration and seizure cessation, the time interval between patient arrival and seizure cessation and the number of episodes of seizure recurrence after drug administration. For the number of successful cessations, intramuscular midazolam showed the highest mean and best rank probability with a value of .881 (.065) and 57.9%, respectively. For the time of cessation, both intravenous lorazepam (IVL) and intravenous diazepam showed a mean of 3.30 (1.30) with IVL having the highest rank probability of 32%. For total time for cessation, intranasal midazolam showed the best mean and rank probability with a value of 4.3 (1.1) and 55%, respectively. Buccal midazolam showed the lowest mean with a value of .106 (.084) for rate of recurrence. Although there was no significant difference between the treatments, but based on the rank probability, IVL shows more promising results for patients who already have an established intravenous line, and for patients presenting in the ER without an intravenous line, the first line of treatment should be INM as it shows the highest rank probability in total time with second-highest successful cessation rate.

Status Epilepticus in Patients with Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis Requiring Intensive Care: A Follow-Up Study

BACKGROUND

To date, specialized studies focusing on status epilepticus (SE) in anti-N-methyl D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis are limited, and the association between the occurrence of SE and clinical outcome is controversial. This study aims to investigate the differences between patients with critical anti-NMDAR encephalitis with SE and patients who experienced epileptic seizures without SE and to evaluate the long-term disease outcomes of patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis with SE who were admitted to the neurological intensive care unit (neuro-ICU).

METHODS

In this retrospective study based on a prospective registry, patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis with neuro-ICU admission from 2014 to 2019 were analyzed and divided into two groups based on whether they had SE. Their clinical characteristics during the neuro-ICU stay were assessed and compared. The neurological and seizure outcomes were evaluated every 3 months.

RESULTS

Of 83 patients with anti-NMDAR encephalitis, 24 required intensive care. In the SE group, 38.5% (5 of 13) of patients developed refractory SE (RSE), and 21.3% (3 of 13) of patients developed super RSE. More patients in the SE group presented with seizures as the initial symptoms (53.8% vs. 9.1%, p = 0.033) and had a strong positive NMDAR antibody titer in the cerebrospinal fluid (76.9% vs. 27.3%, p = 0.043). More patients in the non-SE group had a good neurological outcome (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score < 2) at 3 months after disease onset (60.0% vs. 15.4%, p = 0.039), but 83.3% of patients with SE had a mRS score < 2 at 9 months after disease onset, which was similar to the rate in the non-SE group. A total of 41.7% of patients with SE had their last seizure within 1 month from disease onset, which was significantly lower than the rate in the non-SE group (90%), but all the patients with SE became seizure free after the acute phase of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with critical anti-NMDAR encephalitis who present with SE have a high rate of RSE/super RSE and recover more slowly than patients without SE, but most of them will eventually achieve good long-term neurological outcomes and live seizure free after the acute phase.

Patterns of benzodiazepine underdosing in the Established Status Epilepticus Treatment Trial

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to describe patterns of benzodiazepine use as first-line treatment of status epilepticus (SE) and test the association of benzodiazepine doses with response to second-line agents in patients enrolled in the Established Status Epilepticus Treatment Trial (ESETT).

METHODS

Patients refractory to an adequate dose of benzodiazepines for the treatment of SE were enrolled in ESETT. Choice of benzodiazepine, doses given prior to administration of second-line agent, route of administration, setting, and patient weight were characterized. These were compared with guideline-recommended dosing. Logistic regression was used to determine the association of the first dose of benzodiazepine and the cumulative benzodiazepine dose with the response to second-line agent.

RESULTS

Four hundred sixty patients were administered 1170 doses of benzodiazepines (669 lorazepam, 398 midazolam, 103 diazepam). Lorazepam was most frequently administered intravenously in the emergency department, midazolam intramuscularly or intravenously by the emergency medical services personnel, and diazepam rectally prior to ambulance arrival. The first dose of the first benzodiazepine (N = 460) was lower than guideline recommendations in 76% of midazolam administrations and 81% of lorazepam administrations. Among all administrations, >85% of midazolam and >76% of lorazepam administrations were lower than recommended. Higher first or cumulative benzodiazepine doses were not associated with better outcomes or clinical seizure cessation in response to second-line medications in these benzodiazepine-refractory seizures.

SIGNIFICANCE

Benzodiazepines as first-line treatment of SE, particularly midazolam and lorazepam, are frequently underdosed throughout the United States. This broad and generalizable cohort confirms prior single site reports that underdosing is both pervasive and difficult to remediate. (ESETT ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01960075.).

Early Exposure of Fosphenytoin, Levetiracetam, and Valproic Acid After High-Dose Intravenous Administration in Young Children With Benzodiazepine-Refractory Status Epilepticus

Fosphenytoin (FOS) and its active form, phenytoin (PHT), levetiracetam (LEV), and valproic acid (VPA) are commonly used second-line treatments of status epilepticus. However, limited information is available regarding LEV and VPA concentrations following high intravenous doses, particularly in young children. The Established Status Epilepticus Treatment Trial, a blinded, comparative effectiveness study of FOS, LEV, and VPA for benzodiazepine-refractory status epilepticus provided an opportunity to investigate early drug concentrations. Patients aged ≥2 years who continued to seizure despite receiving adequate doses of benzodiazepines were randomly assigned to FOS, LEV, or VPA infused over 10 minutes. A sparse blood-sampling approach was used, with up to 2 samples collected per patient within 2 hours following drug administration. The objective of this work was to report early drug exposure of PHT, LEV, and VPA and plasma protein binding of PHT and VPA. Twenty-seven children with median (interquartile range) age of 4 (2.5-6.5) years were enrolled. The total plasma concentrations ranged from 69 to 151.3 μg/mL for LEV, 11.3 to 26.7 μg/mL for PHT and 126 to 223 μg/mL for VPA. Free fraction ranged from 4% to 19% for PHT and 17% to 51% for VPA. This is the first report in young children of LEV concentrations with convulsive status epilepticus as well as VPA concentrations after a 40 mg/kg dose. Several challenges limited patient enrollment and blood sampling. Additional studies with a larger sample size are required to evaluate the exposure-response relationships in this emergent condition.

Levetiracetam versus Fosphenytoin in Pediatric Convulsive Status Epilepticus: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of intravenous levetiracetam and fosphenytoin in the management of pediatric status epilepticus.

Materials and Methods:

This is an open-labeled randomized controlled trial, conducted at tertiary care pediatric intensive care unit. Subjects between 1 month and 18 years who presented with status epilepticus were enrolled. If seizures persisted even after two doses of lorazepam, participants were randomized to receive either fosphenytoin 30 mg/kg or levetiracetam 30 mg/kg intravenously and followed up till 48h, for seizure recurrence and adverse drug effects. Outcome measures were cessation of seizures within 10–20 min following the end of the infusion of drugs fosphenytoin and levetiracetam, respectively, and no recurrence of seizures was noted over next 48h.

Results:

Subjects in both study groups were comparable in baseline characteristics. Seizures stopped in 54 (93.1%) and 53 (91.4%) in fosphenytoin and levetiracetam groups, respectively (P = 1.000). Seizure recurrence was noted in 13 (22.4%) and 10 (17.2%) patients in fosphenytoin and levetiracetam groups, respectively (n = 0.485). In fosphenytoin group, one (1.7%) child had bradycardia, two (3.4%) children required inotropes, and three (5.2%) children required intubation. In levetiracetam group, none had bradyarrhythmia, required inotropes, and intubation was required in one (1.7%) child each. No statistically significant difference was observed in outcome parameters in two groups.

Conclusion:

Levetiracetam is as efficacious as fosphenytoin in control of pediatric status epilepticus and is associated with lesser side effects.

Recommandations Formalisées d’Experts SRLF/SFMU : Prise en charge des états de mal épileptiques en préhospitalier, en structure d’urgence et en réanimation dans les 48 premières heures (A l’exclusion du nouveau-né et du nourrisson)

La Société de réanimation de langue française et la Société française de médecine d’urgence ont décidé d’élaborer de nouvelles recommandations sur la prise en charge de l’état mal épileptique (EME) avec l’ambition de répondre le plus possible aux nombreuses questions pratiques que soulèvent les EME : diagnostic, enquête étiologique, traitement non spécifique et spécifique. Vingt-cinq experts ont analysé la littérature scientifique et formulé des recommandations selon la méthodologie GRADE. Les experts se sont accordés sur 96 recommandations. Les recommandations avec le niveau de preuve le plus fort ne concernent que l’EME tonico-clonique généralisé (EMTCG) : l’usage des benzodiazépines en première ligne (clonazépam en intraveineux direct ou midazolam en intramusculaire) est recommandé, répété 5 min après la première injection (à l’exception du midazolam) en cas de persistance clinique. En cas de persistance 5 min après cette seconde injection, il est proposé d’administrer la seconde ligne thérapeutique : valproate de sodium, (fos-)phénytoïne, phénobarbital ou lévétiracétam. La persistance avérée de convulsions 30 min après le début de l’administration du traitement de deuxième ligne signe l’EMETCG réfractaire. Il est alors proposé de recourir à un coma thérapeutique au moyen d’un agent anesthésique intraveineux de type midazolam ou propofol. Des recommandations spécifiques à l’enfant et aux autres EME sont aussi énoncées.

Course and Outcome of Children with Convulsive Status Epilepticus Admitted to a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Introduction The objective of this study was to describe the course and the outcomes of children with convulsive status epilepticus and to evaluate the differences between two groups of children with new-onset seizures and known seizure disorders. Methods This is a retrospective, single-center study. Children with convulsive status epilepticus admitted to our tertiary care pediatric intensive care unit were included in the study. Medical records were reviewed to obtain the demographic- and seizure-related variables. Results Among 139 children with status epilepticus, 69.7% (n = 99) had a known seizure disorder. Focal seizures were present in 23.9% of children, and 34.6% required intubation; there was an overall mortality rate of 1.2%. The children with new-onset seizures were younger and received electroencephalography (EEG) and neuroimaging more often compared to children with known seizure disorders (p < 0.05). However, an abnormal EEG was more common among children with known seizure disorders (p < 0.001). Conclusions Sub-therapeutic anti-epileptic drugs levels were common among children with known seizure disorders presenting with status epilepticus. Gender, race, insurance status, type of seizures, intubation requirement, lengths of stay, and mortality were not significantly different between the two groups.

Multimodal Predictions of Super-Refractory Status Epilepticus and Outcome in Status Epilepticus Due to Acute Encephalitis

Objective: Status epilepticus (SE) is one of the most critical symptoms of encephalitis. Studies on early predictions of progression to super-refractory status epilepticus (SRSE) and poor outcome in SE due to acute encephalitis are scarce. We aimed to investigate the values of neuroimaging and continuous electroencephalogram (EEG) in the multimodal prediction. Methods: Consecutive patients with convulsive SE due to acute encephalitis were included in this study. Demographics, clinical features, neuro-imaging characteristics, medical interventions, and anti-epileptic treatment responses were collected. All the patients had EEG monitoring for at least 24 h. We determined the early predictors of SRSE and prognostic factors of 3-month outcome using multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: From March 2008 to February 2018, 570 patients with acute encephalitis were admitted to neurological intensive care unit (N-ICU) of Xijing hospital. Among them, a total of 94 patients with SE were included in this study. The percentage of non-SRSE and SRSE were 76.6 and 23.4%. Cortical or hippocampal abnormality on neuroimaging (p = 0.002, OR 20.55, 95% CI 3.16-133.46) and END-IT score (p < 0.001, OR 4.07, 95% CI 1.91-8.67) were independent predictors of the progression to SRSE. At 3 months after N-ICU discharge, 56 (59.6%) patients attained good outcomes, and 38 (40.4%) patients had poor outcomes. The recurrence of clinical or EEG seizures within 2 h after the infusion rate of a single anesthetic drug >50% proposed maximal dose (p = 0.044, OR 4.52, 95% CI 1.04-19.68), tracheal intubation (p = 0.011, OR 4.99, 95% CI 1.37-11.69) and emergency resuscitation (p = 0.040, OR 9.80, 95% 1.11-86.47) predicted poor functional outcome. Interpretation: Initial neuro-imaging findings assist early identification of the progression to SRSE. Continuous EEG monitoring contributes to outcome prediction in SE due to acute encephalitis.

Why we prefer levetiracetam over phenytoin for treatment of status epilepticus

Over last fifty years, intravenous (iv) phenytoin (PHT) loading dose has been the treatment of choice for patients with benzodiazepine-resistant convulsive status epilepticus and several guidelines recommended this treatment regimen with simultaneous iv diazepam. Clinical studies have never shown a better efficacy of PHT over other antiepileptic drugs. In addition, iv PHT loading dose is a complex and time-consuming procedure which may expose patients to several risks, such as local cutaneous reactions (purple glove syndrome), severe hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias up to ventricular fibrillation and death, and increased risk of severe allergic reactions. A further disadvantage of PHT is that it is a strong enzymatic inducer and it may make ineffective several drugs that need to be used simultaneously with antiepileptic treatment. In patients with a benzodiazepine-resistant status epilepticus, we suggest iv administration of levetiracetam as soon as possible. If levetiracetam would be ineffective, a further antiepileptic drug among those currently available for iv use (valproate, lacosamide, or phenytoin) can be added before starting third line treatment.

Does semiology of status epilepticus have an impact on treatment response and outcome?

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated whether there is an association between semiology of status epilepticus (SE) and response to treatment and outcome.

METHOD

Two hundred ninety-eight consecutive adult patients (160 females, 138 males) with SE at the University of Munich Hospital were prospectively enrolled. Mean age was 63.2±17.5 (18-97) years. Patient demographics, SE semiology and electroencephalography (EEG) findings, etiology, duration of SE, treatment, and outcome measures were investigated. Status epilepticus semiology was classified according to a semiological status classification. Patient's short-term outcome was determined by Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS).

RESULTS

The most frequent SE type was nonconvulsive SE (NCSE) (39.2%), mostly associated with cerebrovascular etiology (46.6%). A potentially fatal etiology was found in 34.8% of the patients. More than half (60.7%) of the patients had poor short-term outcome (GOS≤3) with an overall mortality of 12.4%. SE was refractory to treatment in 21.5% of the patients. Older age, potentially fatal etiology, systemic infections, NCSE in coma, refractory SE, treatment with anesthetics, long SE duration (>24h), low Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) (≤8) at onset, and high Status Epilepticus Severity Score (STESS-3) (≥3) were associated with poor short-term outcome and death (p<0.05). Potentially fatal etiology and low GCS were the strongest predictors of poor outcome (Exp [b]: 4.74 and 4.10 respectively, p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Status epilepticus semiology has no independent association with outcome, but potentially fatal etiology and low GCS were strong predictive factors for poor short-term outcome of SE.

Outcome prediction in patients with acute repetitive seizures: Application of the Status Epilepticus Severity Score

Acute repetitive seizures (ARS) pose a risk of hospital admission with status epilepticus and a mortality threat, which underscores the need for the early prediction of a clinical course. Unfortunately, little attention has been given to ARS in this context, even though we possess the appropriate predictive tools for the stages of status epilepticus. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to assess the prognostic value of the Status Epilepticus Severity Score (STESS) in the population of patients with ARS. The study included a population of 200 patients. Almost half of the patients had achieved seizure cessations after diazepam administration, whereas 19.5% progressed to status epilepticus despite antiepileptic drug treatment. Mortality reached 10.5% of the total population. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for prediction of death by the STESS had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.901, with an optimal cutoff point for discrimination ≥2 (sensitivity 0.95, specificity 0.71, and Youden index 0.66). Hosmer-Lemeshow indicated good calibration of the STESS (chi-square goodness-of-fit test = 3.24; P = .919). The study shows excellent effectiveness of the STESS in the prognosis of the clinical course in patients with ARS. STESS may be a valuable tool for the proper planning of diagnostic and therapeutic activities in this population.

Can endotracheal intubation be the first step in management of nonconvulsive status epilepticus?: A case report

RATIONALE

Nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) is prolonged seizure activity without motor manifestations. Clinically, there are certain examination findings, in addition to elements of history, that help differentiate it from other encephalopathies. When diagnosing NCSE, the physician faces significant difficulties due to inconsistent clinical presentation and somewhat nonspecific electroencephalogram (EEG) criteria.

PATIENT CONCERNS

To highlight the problems faced when dealing with such a patient, a case of a 29-year-old male who presented with an altered state of consciousness is put forth for the reader. Only after an extensive laboratory and radiological workup had ruled out other causes, an eventual diagnosis was established when clinical features were correlated with suggestive EEG results.

DIAGNOSES

The diagnosis that was reached was NCSE.

INTERVENTIONS

The initial therapeutic interventions generally deployed in such a scenario ultimately failed and consequently the patient had to be sedated and intubated, while being kept on antiepileptic medication.

OUTCOMES

This measure resulted in satisfactory recovery.

LESSONS

Accordingly, we recommend consideration of NCSE in any unconscious patient whose presentation cannot be explained by other disorders. Furthermore, we suggest moving directly to utilizing anesthetic agents and endotracheal intubation, together with anti-epileptic drugs, in the treatment regimen in order to optimize patient outcomes.

A critical appraisal of randomized controlled trials on intravenous phenytoin in convulsive status epilepticus

Since the 1970s, intravenous (IV) phenytoin (PHT) has traditionally been used as second-stage treatment for convulsive status epilepticus (SE) after failure of benzodiazepines. The aim of this review was to critically assess the evidence supporting the use of IV PHT as treatment of convulsive SE in patients of any age. In particular, we critically appraised the results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating IV PHT as treatment of convulsive SE. A systematic search of the literature was carried out to identify RCTs evaluating IV PHT as treatment of convulsive SE in patients of any age. Eight RCTs (544 patients allocated to IV PHT) were included. The included studies differed in almost every single characteristic considered. Six RCTs (472 patients) used IV PHT without demonstrating refractoriness of SE to benzodiazepines. Only two RCTs (72 patients) used IV PHT as second-line treatment for benzodiazepine-resistant convulsive SE. Overall, most evidence from RCTs supports the use of IV PHT immediately after IV diazepam, even if seizures have not recurred. The recommendation derived from RCTs supporting the use of IV PHT as second-line treatment in benzodiazepine-resistant convulsive SE is weak. This is emblematic of the lack of robust evidence from large RCTs to inform clinical practice on how to treat SE after failure of first-line drugs. IV PHT given immediately after first-line benzodiazepines could prolong their short antiepileptic effect and prevent seizure recurrence.

AMPA receptors and perampanel behind selected epilepsies: current evidence and future perspectives

INTRODUCTION

The alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) receptors are the major mediators of glutamate-mediated excitatory neurotransmission, and are critical for synchronization and spread of epileptic activity. Areas covered: AMPA receptor antagonists have been also developed as antiepileptic drugs and perampanel (PER) is the first highly selective, non-competitive AMPA-type glutamate receptor antagonist that is available on the market. It is approved as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization, and for primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures in idiopathic generalized epilepsy, in patients aged ≥ 12 years. This article reviews the role of AMPA receptors in the neuronal hyperexcitability underlying epilepsy, the mechanism of action and clinical experience on the anti-seizure activity of PER. Moreover, the rationale for targeting AMPA receptor in specific epileptic disorders, including brain tumor-related epilepsy, mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with/without hippocampal sclerosis, and status epilepticus is evaluated. Finally, the pharmacological rationale for the development of AMPA receptor antagonists in other neurological disorders beyond epilepsy is considered. Expert opinion: Further research aimed at better understanding the pharmacology and blocking mechanism of PER and other AMPA receptor antagonists will drive future development of therapeutic agents that target epilepsy and other neurological diseases.

Intravenous Versus Nonintravenous Benzodiazepines for the Cessation of Seizures: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

The acquisition of intravenous (IV) access in the actively convulsing patient is difficult. This often delays the administration of the IV benzodiazepine (BDZ) necessary for seizure cessation. Delays in seizure cessation are associated with increased pharmacoresistance, increased risk of neuronal injury, worse patient outcomes, and increased morbidity.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to assess whether the delay imposed by IV access acquisition is justified by improved outcomes. We compared IV versus non-IV BDZ efficacy in the real world with regard to failure rates (primary outcome), interval to seizure control, and observed complications (secondary outcomes).

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. All studies published or in press from the inception of the respective database to July 2016 were included. Only randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials directly comparing IV to non-IV (buccal, rectal, intranasal, or intramuscular) BDZ were included.

RESULTS

Our search strategy retrieved 2,604 citations for review. A total of 11 studies were finally included in qualitative synthesis and 10 in quantitative analysis. Only one was of high quality. For treatment failure, non-IV BDZ was superior to IV BDZ (odd ratio [OR] = 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.56-0.92). However, no significant difference was found between the two treatments in the pediatric subgroup (OR = 1.16; 95% CI = 0.74-1.81). Non-IV BDZ was administered faster than IV BDZ and therefore controlled seizures faster (mean difference = 3.41 minutes; 95% CI = 1.69-5.13 minutes) despite a longer interval between drug administration and seizure cessation (mean difference = 0.74 minutes; 95% CI = 0.52-0.95 minutes). Respiratory complications requiring intervention were similar between non-IV BDZ and IV BDZ, regardless of administration route (risk difference = 0.00; 95% CI = -0.02 to 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Non-IV BDZ, compared to IV BDZ, terminate seizures faster and have a superior efficacy and side effect profile. Higher-quality studies and further evaluation in different age groups are warranted.

The neuroprotective effect of perampanel in lithium-pilocarpine rat seizure model

PURPOSE

Status epilepticus (SE) causes irreversible neurodegeneration if not terminated quickly. Perampanel (PER), a potent AMPA receptor antagonist, has previously been shown to terminate seizures in the lithium-pilocarpine SE model. In the present study, we assessed whether PER would also prevent neuronal damage in this model.

METHODS

SE was induced in rats using lithium chloride and pilocarpine. Initiation of SE was defined as continuous seizures that exhibited as rearing accompanied by bilateral forelimb clonus (Racine score 4). Either PER (0.6, 2, or 6mg/kg) or diazepam (DZP, 10mg/kg) was administered intravenously 30min after SE initiation. Histopathological samples from treated and seizure-naive rats were taken one week after treatment and then stained with an anti-neuronal nuclei (NeuN) antibody. The sections were analyzed by using a pixel-counting algorithm to quantify the amount of staining in the CA1 subregion of the hippocampus, piriform cortex (Pir), and mediodorsal thalamic nucleus (MD).

RESULTS

DZP administration did not suppress seizures or the degeneration of neurons in the examined areas. Seizures were terminated in 100% of rats treated with 6mg/kg PER (n=8) and in 47% (7/15) of rats treated with 2mg/kg PER, and neurons in the analyzed areas of these animals were preserved to the level seen in naive rats. In the eight animals in which 2mg/kg PER did not terminate the seizures, neuronal loss was partially attenuated in CA1 and Pir, and neurons were fully preserved in MD. Treatment with 0.6mg/kg PER did not terminate the seizures or significantly preserve neurons. The anti-seizure effect of PER correlated well with the degree of neuroprotection in each analyzed area.

CONCLUSIONS

PER exhibited a strong neuroprotective effect in a drug-refractory SE model, and this effect was correlated with its attenuation of seizure.

Management of refractory status epilepticus in an actively dying patient

No consensus guidelines exist for the treatment of refractory myoclonic status epilepticus or refractory myoclonus in the palliative care setting. Evidence-based guidelines for the general medical population are often neither practical nor applicable at the end of life. Many challenges, including medication availability, route of administration, monitoring, and work-up are all unique to the palliative care setting. Two patients with refractory myoclonus versus refractory myoclonic status epilepticus are described here, illustrating the challenges involved in treatment as well the need for further research for therapy in the palliative care setting.

Effect of perampanel, a novel AMPA antagonist, on benzodiazepine-resistant status epilepticus in a lithium-pilocarpine rat model

This study assessed the efficacy of diazepam, and the alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionic acid (AMPA) receptor antagonists perampanel and GYKI52466 in a lithium-pilocarpine status epilepticus (SE) model. SE was induced in rats using lithium chloride, scopolamine methyl bromide, and pilocarpine. Diazepam 10, 20, or 40 mg kg⁻¹, or perampanel 1, 2.5, 5, or 8 mg kg⁻¹ were administered intravenously at 10 or 30 min after seizure onset, and GYKI52466 50 mg kg⁻¹, or combinations of diazepam 2.5–5 mg kg⁻¹ and perampanel 0.5–1 mg kg⁻¹, were administered intravenously at 30 min after seizure onset. Diazepam 20 mg kg⁻¹ terminated seizures (based on electroencephalography and assessment of behavioral seizures) in 2/6 rats at 10 min and 0/6 rats at 30 min (ED₅₀: 10 min, 30 mg kg⁻¹; 30 min, not determined). Perampanel 8 mg kg⁻¹ terminated seizures in 6/6 rats at both 10 and 30 min (ED₅₀: 10 min 1.7 mg kg⁻¹; 30 min, 5.1 mg kg⁻¹). GYKI52466 50 mg kg⁻¹ terminated seizures in 2/4 rats at 30 min. Co-administration of diazepam 5 mg kg⁻¹ and perampanel 1 mg kg⁻¹ terminated seizures in 9/9 rats at 30 min. In conclusion, perampanel and GYKI52466 provided efficacy in a lithium-pilocarpine SE model at 30 min after seizure onset, when SE was refractory to diazepam, supporting the therapeutic potential of AMPA receptor antagonists for refractory SE. The perampanel dose required to terminate seizures was reduced by combination with diazepam, suggesting synergy.

The relative effectiveness of five antiepileptic drugs in treatment of benzodiazepine-resistant convulsive status epilepticus: a meta-analysis of published studies

PURPOSE

Systematic evaluation of published evidence-base of the efficacy of five antiepileptic drugs - lacosamide, levetiracetam, valproate, phenytoin and phenobarbital - in convulsive benzodiazepine-resistant status epilepticus.

METHODS

Data sources included electronic databases, personal communication, and back tracing of references in pertinent studies. These were prospective and retrospective human studies presenting original data for participants with convulsive benzodiazepine-resistant status epilepticus. Interventions were intravenous lacosamide, levetiracetam, phenobarbital, phenytoin and valproate. Outcome measured is clinically detectable cessation of seizure activity. Level-of-evidence was assessed according to Oxford Centre of Evidence-Based Medicine and The Cochrane Collaboration's Tool for Assessment of Risk. Twenty seven studies (798 cases of convulsive status epilepticus) were identified and 22 included in a meta-analysis. Random-effects analysis of dichotomous outcome of a single group estimate (proportion), with inverse variance weighting, was implemented. Several sources of clinical and methodological heterogeneity were identified.

RESULTS

Efficacy of levetiracetam was 68.5% (95% CI: 56.2-78.7%), phenobarbital 73.6% (95% CI: 58.3-84.8%), phenytoin 50.2% (95% CI: 34.2-66.1%) and valproate 75.7% (95% CI: 63.7-84.8%). Lacosamide studies were excluded from the meta-analysis due to insufficient data.

CONCLUSION

Valproate, levetiracetam and phenobarbital can all be used as first line therapy in benzodiazepine-resistant status epilepticus. The evidence does not support the first-line use of phenytoin. There is not enough evidence to support the routine use of lacosamide. Randomized controlled trials are urgently needed.

Gaps and opportunities in refractory status epilepticus research in children: a multi-center approach by the Pediatric Status Epilepticus Research Group (pSERG)

PURPOSE

Status epilepticus (SE) is a life-threatening condition that can be refractory to initial treatment. Randomized controlled studies to guide treatment choices, especially beyond first-line drugs, are not available. This report summarizes the evidence that guides the management of refractory convulsive SE (RCSE) in children, defines gaps in our clinical knowledge and describes the development and works of the 'pediatric Status Epilepticus Research Group' (pSERG).

METHODS

A literature review was performed to evaluate current gaps in the pediatric SE and RCSE literature. In person and online meetings helped to develop and expand the pSERG network.

RESULTS

The care of pediatric RCSE is largely based on extrapolations of limited evidence derived from adult literature and supplemented with case reports and case series in children. No comparative effectiveness trials have been performed in the pediatric population. Gaps in knowledge include risk factors for SE, biomarkers of SE and RCSE, second- and third-line treatment options, and long-term outcome.

CONCLUSION

The care of children with RCSE is based on limited evidence. In order to address these knowledge gaps, the multicenter pSERG was established to facilitate prospective collection, analysis, and sharing of de-identified data and biological specimens from children with RCSE. These data will allow identification of treatment strategies associated with better outcomes and delineate evidence-based interventions to improve the care of children with SE.

Propofol infusion syndrome resuscitation with extracorporeal life support: a case report and review of the literature

We report a case of propofol infusion syndrome (PRIS) in a young female treated for status epilepticus. In this case, PRIS rapidly evolved to full cardiovascular collapse despite aggressive supportive care in the intensive care unit, as well as prompt discontinuation of the offending agent. She progressed to refractory cardiac arrest requiring emergent initiation of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). She regained a perfusing rhythm after prolonged (>8 hours) asystole, was weaned off ECMO and eventually all life support, and was discharged to home. We also present a review of the available literature on the use of ECMO for PRIS.

A proposed roadmap for inpatient neurology quality indicators

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

In recent years, there has been increasing pressure to measure and report quality in health care. However, there has been little focus on quality measurement in the field of neurology for conditions other than stroke and transient ischemic attack. As the number of evidence-based treatments for neurological conditions grows, so will the demand to measure the quality of care delivered. The purpose of this study was to review essential components of hospital performance measures for neurological disease and propose potential quality indicators for commonly encountered inpatient neurological diagnoses.

METHODS

We determined the most common inpatient neurological diagnoses at a major tertiary care medical center by reviewing the billing database. We then searched PubMed and the National Guidelines Clearinghouse to identify treatment guidelines for these conditions. Guideline recommendations with class I/level A evidence were evaluated as possible quality indicators.

RESULTS

We found 94 guidelines for 14 inpatient neurological conditions other than stroke and transient ischemic attack. Of these, 36 guidelines contained at least 1 recommendation with class I evidence. Based on these, potential quality indicators for intracerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, pneumococcal meningitis, coma following cardiac arrest, encephalitis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, multiple sclerosis, and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo are proposed.

CONCLUSIONS

There are several inpatient neurological conditions with treatments or diagnostic test routines supported by high levels of evidence that could be used in the future as quality indicators.

Enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects of diazepam by kava combination

The long term use of antiepileptic drugs possesses many unwanted effects; thus, new safe combinations are urgently mandated. Hence, the present study aimed to investigate the anticonvulsant effect of kava alone or in combination with a synthetic anticonvulsant drug, diazepam (DZ). To this end, female Wistar rats were divided into two subsets, each comprising 6 groups as follows: group (i) received 1% Tween 80 p.o. and served as control, while groups (ii) and (iii) received kava at two dose levels (100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.). The remaining three groups received (iv) DZ alone (10 mg/kg p.o.) or kava in combination with DZ (v) (5 mg/kg, p.o.) or (vi) (10 mg/kg, p.o.). Results of the present study revealed that kava increased the maximal electroshock seizure threshold (MEST) and enhanced the anticonvulsant effect of diazepam following both acute and chronic treatment. Moreover, neither kava nor its combination with DZ impaired motor co-ordination either acutely or chronically. Furthermore, kava ameliorated both the reduction in locomotor activity as well as changes in liver function tests induced by chronic administration of DZ. Moreover, no elevation was shown in the creatinine concentration vs. control group following chronic administration of kava or DZ either alone or in combination with kava. In conclusion, the present study suggests the possibility of combining a low dose DZ with kava to reduce harmful effects and might be recommended for clinical use in patients chronically treated with this synthetic anticonvulsant drug.

The efficacy of intravenous sodium valproate and phenytoin as the first-line treatment in status epilepticus: a comparison study

Background

Status epilepticus (SE) is a serious neurological condition and requires prompt treatment. Sodium valproate has been used to treat SE successfully but its role as the first-line antiepileptic drug (AED) is still controversial. This study evaluated the efficacy of intravenous sodium valproate to determine if it is non-inferior to intravenous phenytoin in SE treatment.

Methods

Patients diagnosed as SE during 2003–2010 who were of an age of more than 15 years and received either intravenous sodium valproate or intravenous phenytoin as the first-line treatment were enrolled. Clinical characteristics and outcomes of SE were recorded and analyzed. The differences of outcomes between sodium valproate and phenytoin group were determined by descriptive statistics.

Results

During the study period, there were 37 and 17 SE patients who received intravenous phenytoin and intravenous sodium valproate as the first-line treatment, respectively. All patients received diazepam 10 mg intravenously as a rescue medication before starting the antiepileptic agents if uncontrolled except one patient in the sodium valproate group. There were no significant differences between the phenytoin and sodium valproate groups in all outcome variables including numbers of patients with clinically-controlled seizures, non-dependent patients, time to seizure control, and duration of hospitalization, and death. No serious cardiovasculars event such as hypotension occurred in either group.

Conclusion

Intravenous sodium valproate is non-inferior to intravenous phenytoin as the first-line treatment in SE with no significant cardiovascular compromises.

Treatment of status epilepticus with ketamine, are we there yet?

Status epilepticus (SE), a neurological emergency both in adults and in children, could lead to brain damage and even death if untreated. Generalized convulsive SE (GCSE) is the most common and severe form, an example of which is that induced by organophosphorus nerve agents. First- and second-line pharmacotherapies are relatively consensual, but if seizures are still not controlled, there is currently no definitive data to guide the optimal choice of therapy. The medical community seems largely reluctant to use ketamine, a noncompetitive antagonist of the N-methyl-d-aspartate glutamate receptor. However, a review of the literature clearly shows that ketamine possesses, in preclinical studies, antiepileptic properties and provides neuroprotection. Clinical evidences are scarcer and more difficult to analyze, owing to a use in situations of polytherapy. In absence of existing or planned randomized clinical trials, the medical community should make up its mind from well-conducted preclinical studies performed on appropriate models. Although potentially active, ketamine has no real place for the treatment of isolated seizures, better accepted drugs being used. Its best usage should be during GCSE, but not waiting for SE to become totally refractory. Concerns about possible developmental neurotoxicity might limit its pediatric use for refractory SE.

Calculating the risk benefit equation for aggressive treatment of non-convulsive status epilepticus

OBJECTIVE

To address the question: does non-convulsive status epilepticus warrant the same aggressive treatment as convulsive status epilepticus?

METHODS

We used a decision model to evaluate the risks and benefits of treating non-convulsive status epilepticus with intravenous anesthetics and ICU-level aggressive care. We investigated how the decision to use aggressive versus non-aggressive management for non-convulsive status epilepticus impacts expected patient outcome for four etiologies: absence epilepsy, discontinued antiepileptic drugs, intraparenchymal hemorrhage, and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. Each etiology was defined by distinct values for five key parameters: baseline mortality rate of the inciting etiology; efficacy of non-aggressive treatment in gaining control of seizures; the relative contribution of seizures to overall mortality; the degree of excess disability expected in the case of delayed seizure control; and the mortality risk of aggressive treatment.

RESULTS

Non-aggressive treatment was favored for etiologies with low morbidity and mortality such as absence epilepsy and discontinued antiepileptic drugs. The risk of aggressive treatment was only warranted in etiologies where there was significant risk of seizure-induced neurologic damage. In the case of post-anoxic status epilepticus, expected outcomes were poor regardless of the treatment chosen. The favored strategy in each case was determined by strong interactions of all five model parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

Determination of the optimal management approach to non-convulsive status epilepticus is complex and is ultimately determined by the inciting etiology.

The neuro-ICU patient and electroencephalography paroxysms: if and when to treat

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review recent clinical data and summarize actual recommendations for the management of electrographic seizures and status epilepticus in neuro-ICU patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Electrographic, 'nonconvulsive', seizures are frequent in neuro-ICU patients including traumatic brain injury, subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Continuous electroencephalography monitoring is thus of great potential utility. The impact of electrographic seizures on outcome however is not entirely established and it is also unclear what type of electroencephalography paroxysms require treatment and when and how exactly to treat them. Evidence from randomized studies is lacking and will not be available in the near future. Given robust animal and human evidence showing the potential negative impact of seizures on secondary cerebral damage and outcome, treatment of seizures appears reasonable, particularly if related to status epilepticus. On the contrary, over-aggressive antiepileptic therapy entails risks. The management of seizures should therefore be guided individually, based on the underlying cause, the severity of illness and patient comorbidities.

SUMMARY

We provide a pragmatic approach for the management of electrographic seizures in neuro-ICU patients. International consensus guidelines on continuous electroencephalography monitoring and seizure therapy are needed and would represent the rationale for a future multicenter randomized trial.

Guidelines for the evaluation and management of status epilepticus

Status epilepticus (SE) treatment strategies vary substantially from one institution to another due to the lack of data to support one treatment over another. To provide guidance for the acute treatment of SE in critically ill patients, the Neurocritical Care Society organized a writing committee to evaluate the literature and develop an evidence-based and expert consensus practice guideline. Literature searches were conducted using PubMed and studies meeting the criteria established by the writing committee were evaluated. Recommendations were developed based on the literature using standardized assessment methods from the American Heart Association and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation systems, as well as expert opinion when sufficient data were lacking.

A comparative electrographic analysis of the effect of sec-butyl-propylacetamide on pharmacoresistant status epilepticus

Better treatment of status epilepticus (SE), which typically becomes refractory after about 30 min, will require new pharmacotherapies. The effect of sec-butyl-propylacetamide (SPD), an amide derivative of valproic acid (VPA), on electrographic status epilepticus (ESE) was compared quantitatively to other standard-of-care compounds. Cortical electroencephalograms (EEGs) were recorded from rats during ESE induced with lithium-pilocarpine. Using a previously-published algorithm, the effects of SPD on ESE were compared quantitatively to other relevant compounds. To confirm benzodiazepine resistance, diazepam (DZP) was shown to suppress ESE when administered 15 min after the first motor seizure, but not after 30 min (100mg/kg). VPA (300 mg/kg) also lacked efficacy at 30 min. SPD (130 mg/kg) strongly suppressed ESE at 30 min, less after 45 min, and not at 60 min. At a higher dose (180 mg/kg), SPD profoundly suppressed ESE at 60 min, similar to propofol (100mg/kg) and pentobarbital (30 mg/kg). After 4-6h of SPD-induced suppression, EEG activity often overshot control levels at 7-12h. Valnoctamide (VCD, 180 mg/kg), an SPD homolog, was also efficacious at 30 min. SPD blocks pilocarpine-induced electrographic seizures when administered at 1h after the first motor seizure. SPD has a faster onset and greater efficacy than DZP and VPA, and is similar to propofol and pentobarbital. SPD and structurally similar compounds may be useful for the treatment of refractory ESE. Further development and use of automated analyses of ESE may facilitate drug discovery for refractory SE.

A consensus-based approach to patient safety in epilepsy monitoring units: recommendations for preferred practices

Patients in an epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) with video-EEG telemetry have a risk for seizure emergencies, injuries and adverse events, which emphasizes the need for strategies to prevent avoidable harm. An expert consensus process was used to establish recommendations for patient safety in EMUs. Workgroups analyzed literature and expert opinion regarding seizure observation, seizure provocation, acute seizures, and activity/environment. A Delphi methodology was used to establish consensus for items submitted by these workgroups. Fifty-three items reached consensus and were organized into 30 recommendations. High levels of agreement were noted for items pertaining to orientation, training, communication, seizure precautions, individualized plans, and patient/family education. It was agreed that seizure observation should include direct observation or use of closed-circuit camera. The use of continuous observation was strongest in patients with invasive electrodes, at high risk for injury, or undergoing AED withdrawal. This process provides a first step in establishing EMU safety practices.

Problems and controversies in status epilepticus: a review and recommendations

Status epilepticus (SE) is a neurologic emergency that require immediate vigorous treatment in order to prevent serious morbidity or even death. Several investigators have suggested that the underlying etiology is the primary determinant of outcome. We believe that this may be true in aggressively treated SE, but not when the treatment is less than optimal. In this article, we will discuss the factors that have been implicated in affecting SE outcomes, and argue, on the basis of both human and experimental animal data, that aggressive treatment is necessary and appropriate for all presentations of SE in order to maximize the probability of a successful outcome even when the etiology suggests a poor prognosis.

Cocaine intoxication

Cocaine, a natural alkaloid derived from the coca plant, is one of the most commonly abused illicit drugs. Cocaine is commonly abused by inhalation, nasal insufflation, and intravenous injection, resulting in many adverse effects that ensue from local anesthetic, vasoconstrictive, sympathomimetic, psychoactive, and prothrombotic mechanisms. Cocaine can affect all body systems and the clinical presentation may primarily result from organ toxicity. Among the most severe complications are seizures, hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes, myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, rhabdomyolysis, mesenteric ischemia, acute renal injury and multiple organ failure.

Bioavailability of a novel midazolam gel after intranasal administration in dogs

OBJECTIVE

To compare the pharmacokinetics of a novel bioadhesive gel formulation of midazolam after intranasal (IN) administration with that of midazolam solution after IN, IV, and rectal administration to dogs.

ANIMALS

10 (5 males and 5 females) healthy adult Beagles.

PROCEDURES

Dogs were assigned to 4 treatment groups for a crossover study design. Initially, midazolam solution (5 mg/mL) was administered (0.2 mg/kg) IV to group 1, rectally to group 2, and IN to group 3; a 0.4% hydroxypropyl methylcellulose midazolam gel formulation (50 mg/mL) was administered (0.2 mg/kg, IN) to group 4. Each dog received all 4 treatments; there was a 7-day washout period between subsequent treatments. Blood samples were collected before and after midazolam administration. Plasma concentration of midazolam was determined by use of high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

The peak plasma concentration after IN administration of the gel formulation was significantly higher than that after IN and rectal administration of the solution. Mean ± SD time to peak concentration was 11.70 ± 2.63 minutes (gel IN), 17.50 ± 2.64 minutes (solution IN), and 39 ± 14.49 minutes (solution rectally). Mean bioavailability of midazolam was 70.4% (gel IN), 52.0% (solution IN), and 49.0% (solution rectally). Bioavailability after IN administration of the gel formulation was significantly higher than that after IN and rectal administration of the solution.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

IN administration of midazolam gel was superior to both IN and rectal administration of midazolam solution with respect to peak plasma concentration and bioavailability.

Review article: phenytoin use and efficacy in the ED

This article reviews the evidence regarding the use of phenytoin in adult and paediatric patients experiencing seizures in the ED in Australasia, including relevant pharmacokinetics, dosage, therapeutic drug monitoring and methods of administration. It summarizes current evidence regarding the use of phenytoin in a number of seizure types commonly seen in ED. A search of Medline, Embase and Cochrane was performed using appropriate keyword and MeSH headings. A loading dose of phenytoin should be given to phenytoin naïve patients for the emergency treatment of seizures; parenteral administration results in therapeutic concentration sooner than oral administration but is associated with more frequent and significant adverse effects. Diluting phenytoin is safe but there is limited evidence regarding adverse effects of diluted phenytoin; a filter is probably not needed. Free phenytoin concentrations correlate best with antiseizure efficacy. Phenytoin is used in the treatment of status epilepticus although evidence here is limited; it may also be given to prevent early post-traumatic seizures. It should not be given to treat or prevent eclamptic or alcohol-related seizures. There is insufficient evidence regarding its use in preventing febrile convulsions, treating or preventing seizures due to space occupying lesions or intracerebral haemorrhage and thrombosis. In conclusion, phenytoin is appropriate for treatment of some seizures seen in the ED; it is associated with significant adverse effects; trials are ongoing regarding the use of other anticonvulsants in the treatment of status epilepticus.

Diagnostic work-up and therapeutic options in management of pediatric status epilepticus

BACKGROUND

Status epilepticus (SE) is a life-threatening neurologic disorder comprising prolonged and unremitting crisis, and two or more series of seizures without complete intercritical recovery.

DATA SOURCES

We reviewed the literature through a Pubmed/Medline research using key words including status epilepticus, antiepileptic drugs and children, in order to revise and compare international/national protocols and to examine pediatric guidelines in SE management.

RESULTS

Neurologic impairment and SE etiology seem to be the most independent risks for mortality. A deep semiologic evaluation is essential to addressing diagnostic work-up. Ematochemical parameters, plasma levels of antiepileptic drugs and clinically oriented toxic/metabolic screening should be mandatory for investigating both causes and effects of SE. Electroencephalography is clearly helpful to characterize focal from generalized SE and to distinguish epileptic events from pseudoseizures, and it is deal to find nonconvulsive SE. Neuroimaging techniques could detect epileptogenic lesions (such as cortical malformations, tumors, demyelinating disorders or strokes) but are common in practice to find negative or controversial results. Pharmacologic management can be essentially arranged in three stages: benzodiazepines for early SE (lasting less than 30 minutes), phenytoin/fosphenytoin, phenobarbital, valproate, levetiracetam or lacosamide for established SE (30-90 minutes), and anesthetics for refractory SE (more than 90 minutes).

CONCLUSIONS

Status epilepticus is the most common neurologic emergency in childhood. A systematic diagnostic work-up and a three steps based therapeutic approach is required at this age.

What is the evidence to use new intravenous AEDs in status epilepticus?

Current standard treatment of established status epilepticus after failure of benzodiazepines is intravenous phenytoin/fosphenytoin, phenobarbital, or valproate. Since 2006 two new antiseizure drugs have become available as intravenous formulation: levetiracetam (2006) and lacosamide (2008). Both drugs have been taken up very rapidly by the clinicians to treat acute seizures and status epilepticus, despite lack of evidence from randomized controlled trials. The favorable pharmacokinetic profile and the good tolerability, especially the lack of sedating effects of both drugs make them promising potential alternatives to the standard antiseizure drugs. Future randomized controlled trials are needed to inform clinicians better about the best choice of treatment in established status epilepticus. The experimental evidence as well as the current clinical experience with levetiracetam and lacosamide are summarized in this review.