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Recurrent Seizures in Adults

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 2, 2024.

What is a recurrent seizure?

A seizure is an episode of abnormal brain activity. A seizure can cause jerky muscle movements, loss of consciousness, or confusion. Recurrent means you have a seizure more than once. The cause of your seizures may not be known. Some common triggers are alcohol, drugs, lack of sleep, fever, or a virus. High or low blood sugar levels can also trigger a seizure.

How is a recurrent seizure treated?

You may need seizure medicine if you do not already take it. If you currently take seizure medicine, the dose or type of medicine may need be changed. Recurrent seizures may occur if you do not take antiseizure medicine as directed. Surgery may be needed to remove a tumor or fix a problem in your brain.

Treatment options

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

View more treatment options

What can I do to help prevent seizures?

What can I do to manage recurrent seizures?

What do I need to know about stopping my medicine?

Your healthcare provider can help you understand and make decisions about continuing or stopping antiseizure medicines. Do not stop taking your medicine until you talk to your provider. You may need to be seizure free for 18 to 24 months before you can stop your medicine. Seizures might happen again while you stop taking the medicine, or after you stop. Rarely, these seizures no longer respond to medicines. Tests such as an EEG may be useful in helping you and your provider make medicine decisions.

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone else call for any of the following:

When should I call my doctor?

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. 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.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.