After status epilepticus is controlled, oral anticonvulsants are begun and tests are performed to determine the cause of the condition. Important details include date and time of the seizure, how long it lasted, which body parts were affected, the type of movements or other symptoms, possible causes, and other factors noted. Treat any injuries from bumps or falls. Treatment of causes, if a cause has been identified, may stop the occurrence of seizures. This may include medical treatment of disorders, surgical repair of tumors or brain lesions, or other treatments.
Oral anticonvulsants prevent or minimize the number of future seizures.
Response is individual, and the medication used and dosage may have to be adjusted repeatedly. Petit mal seizures usually respond best to valproic acid or ethosuximide. Clonazepam or other medications may also be used. Grand mal seizures usually respond best to phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproic acid, or phenobarbital. Primidone or other medications may also be used.