Rescue therapies in epilepsy.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to provide a succinct evaluation of the current rescue medications and action plans available to our patients with seizure clusters in the outpatient setting.

RECENT FINDINGS: The main themes of the recent findings are that rescue medications and seizure action plans (SAPs) are underutilized, particularly in the adult population. The safety and efficacy of intranasal midazolam and intranasal diazepam is comparable with rectal diazepam for the treatment of seizure clusters. Additionally, this intranasal formulation has the benefit of a more socially acceptable route of administration and ease of use.

SUMMARY: The implication of these findings is a greater variety and awareness in the rescue medications available to our patients suffering from seizure clusters.