What medications are commonly used to manage an active seizure?

The use of benzodiazepines such as Lorazepam or Diazepam is the standard approach for managing active seizures due to their rapid onset of action and effectiveness in terminating seizure activity. Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which plays a crucial role in inhibiting neuronal excitability. This is particularly important during a seizure, where there is excessive electrical activity in the brain.

These medications can be administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or rectally, providing flexibility depending on the clinical scenario. Their ability to quickly stabilize the patient's condition makes them the first line of treatment in emergency settings.

In contrast, other medications listed are not appropriate for the immediate management of active seizures. Aspirin and Ibuprofen are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) primarily used for pain and inflammation but do not address seizure pathology. Antidepressants and mood stabilizers do not have acute anticonvulsant properties and are used in long-term management of mood disorders rather than in an active seizure scenario. Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers can be beneficial in certain cardiovascular conditions but are not indicated for seizure management.