Status epilepticus (SE) refers to a life-threatening conition in which the brain is in a state of persistent seizure. Definitions vary, but traditionally it is defined as one continuous unremitting seizure lasting longer than 5-10 minutes, or recurrent seizures without regaining consciousness between seizures for greater than 30 minutes. There is some evidence that 5 minutes is sufficient to damage neurons and that seizures are unlikely to self-terminate by that time.