Emergency

Seizure Emergency Medications

Emergency & Critical Care

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Examples

lorazepamdiazepammidazolamlevetiracetamfosphenytoin

Prefix / Suffix: -azepam/-azolam for benzodiazepines

Physiology

Prolonged seizures increase metabolic demand, impair oxygenation, and can cause neuronal injury. Emergency medications stop abnormal neuronal firing and prevent recurrence.

Mechanism of Action

Benzodiazepines enhance GABA for rapid seizure termination. Longer-acting antiseizure drugs stabilize neuronal activity to prevent repeat seizures.

Indications

  • Status epilepticus
  • Repeated seizures without return to baseline
  • Acute seizure clusters
  • Seizures due to selected toxic, metabolic, or neurologic causes

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

  • Respiratory depression
  • Sedation
  • Hypotension
  • Ataxia
  • Arrhythmias with phenytoin/fosphenytoin

Contraindications

  • No IV access should not delay intranasal/IM options when ordered
  • Severe respiratory depression without airway support
  • Drug-specific allergy

Nursing Considerations

  • Protect from injury, position side-lying if possible, and do not put anything in the mouth
  • Time the seizure and assess airway, oxygenation, and glucose
  • Give benzodiazepine as ordered using the correct route
  • Prepare suction, oxygen, and airway equipment
  • Monitor for respiratory depression after medication

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Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.