Seizure Medications: Managing and Controlling Seizures

Seizure medications are prescribed to manage and control seizures, which are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. These medications work by stabilizing the electrical activity in the brain to prevent or reduce the occurrence of seizures.

Seizure Medications FAQ

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What are antiseizure medications?

Antiseizure medications (previously known as antiepileptic or anticonvulsant medications) are prescription medications that help treat and prevent seizures. Healthcare providers may prescribe these medications to treat other conditions as well. A seizure happens when you have a temporary, unstoppable surge of electrical activity in your brain.

What is the best medication for a seizure?

The most commonly used medications are benzodiazepines because they get into the bloodstream quickly to start working on the brain to stop the seizure. They include: Midazolam - can be given nasally ( Nayzilam ), buccally, orally It may take several months before the best drug and dosage are determined for you.

Do seizure medicines 'fix' seizures?

Seizure medicines don’t ‘fix’ the problems that cause seizures. Instead, they try to prevent or stop the seizures. Seizure medicines work in complex ways. Many medicines act on brain cells to affect the way substances move in and out of the cells.

How do seizure medicines work?

Seizure medicines work in complex ways. Many medicines act on brain cells to affect the way substances move in and out of the cells. Others try to change the way substances called ‘neurotransmitters’ excite (e.g. stimulate) or inhibit (e.g. stop or slow down) the way information is sent from one cell and area of the brain to another.