Drugs are only slightly less effective for petit mal seizures. Half of the people who respond to drug treatment can eventually discontinue the treatment without having a relapse. No single drug can control all types of seizures. Some people can have their seizures controlled with a single drug, while others have to take several. Because status epilepticus is an emergency, doctors must give the person large intravenous doses of an antiseizure drug as quickly as possible.
Care is taken to prevent injuries during the prolonged seizure.
While antiseizure drugs are very effective, they may have side effects. Many cause drowsiness but, paradoxically, cause hyperactivity when given to children. Doctors order blood tests periodically to find out if the drug is affecting the kidneys, liver, or blood cells. People taking antiseizure drugs should be aware of possible side effects and should consult their doctor at the first sign of them. The doctor adjusts the dose after asking about side effects and testing the level of drug in the blood.