Nonepileptic Seizures

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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A nonepileptic seizure (NES) is a short period of changes in how you move, think, or feel. It is sometimes called a nonepileptic event or episode. A NES looks like an epileptic seizure, but there are no electrical changes in the brain. Epilepsy medicine will not stop or prevent a NES. A NES is a serious condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are needed to prevent more problems.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Informed consent

is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.

Tests:

• Blood tests may show a physical cause of your NES, such as low blood sugar or oxygen levels.
• An EEG is a test that checks your brain function. Small pads or metal discs are put on your head. Each has a wire that is hooked to a machine. This machine prints a paper tracing of brain wave activity from different parts of your brain. A video-electroencephalogram records behavior and the EEG at the same time. Changes in behavior are related to changes in the EEG.
• A CT or MRI may show a physical cause of your NES. You may be given contrast liquid to help your brain, blood vessels, and skull show up better in the pictures. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell the healthcare provider if you have any metal in or on your body.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Keppra
• Xcopri
• levetiracetam
• Vimpat
• Dilantin

View more treatment options

Therapy:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy helps you learn to face a feared object or situation slowly and carefully. You will also learn to control your mental and physical reactions of fear.
• Psychotherapy is therapy that includes your family or people who are close to you. You will be able to talk about NES and anything that may have caused you to develop the condition.

RISKS:

You have a higher risk for another seizure within the next 2 years. Medicines may cause dry mouth, fast heartbeat, constipation, sleepiness, or weight gain. Untreated NES may become a long-term condition that prevents you from having a normal life. Your health, quality of life, and ability to function may change. You may have trouble doing your daily activities.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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