Termination of complex partial status epilepticus by intravenous levetiracetam

Complex partial status epilepticus is a non-convulsive state of persistent behavioural change from baseline functioning, with continuous or intermittent ictal epileptic EEG discharges.(1-3) Although relatively common, it is often difficult to diagnose. Treatment with widely available antiepileptic drugs is of limited success and can have relevant side effects. 1 4 Here we report the use of a newly released intravenous formula of levetiracetam in a patient who, despite intravenous loading with phenytoin and oral administration of lorazepam, developed complex partial status epilepticus following a series of generalised tonic clonic seizures. Video EEG monitoring showed resolution of mental clouding and a reduction in ictal EEG patterns within 35 min of administration of levetiracetam.