Principles of managing seizures in the last days of life

New-onset seizures in the last days of life are uncommon. For patients who have never had a seizure but take a prophylactic antiepileptic, the antiepileptic may be withdrawn; see Rationalising antiepileptics used for seizures in palliative care.

For acute seizure management, see Managing acute seizures in palliative care.

If a seizure cannot be controlled, seek immediate specialist advice; additional antiepileptics (eg levetiracetam, phenobarbital [phenobarbitone]) may be needed.

Follow the principles of drug therapy for symptoms in the last days of life.

For general information on planning seizure management and assessing seizures in palliative care, see Seizures in palliative care.