Status epilepticus may end fatally or may leave serious sequelae. Thus the physician must act quickly and appropriately to stop convulsions using the methods described. Supportive measures--maintenance of airway, protection from harm, maintenance of vital functions--must be accomplished before drug therapy is started. Metabolic abnormalities must be corrected. Striving for levels of antiepileptic drugs in the upper therapeutic range is best, and the physician must be prepared to deal with the side-effects and complications of these medications.