Which treatment option is considered after attempting benzodiazepines for status epilepticus?

In the management of status epilepticus, after initial treatment with benzodiazepines, it is essential to use antiepileptic drugs to achieve seizure control. Phenytoin or fosphenytoin are commonly used as second-line treatments in this scenario. These medications act by stabilizing neuronal membranes and preventing the spread of seizure activity within the brain.

While increasing the benzodiazepine dosage may be considered, it may not provide the necessary long-term seizure control, particularly in patients who have ongoing seizures. Immediate intubation is not a routine intervention unless the patient's airway is compromised or they are unable to protect their airway, while intravenous potassium administration does not have a role in treating status epilepticus and can lead to complications like hyperkalemia. Therefore, administering phenytoin or fosphenytoin is the appropriate next step following benzodiazepine treatment in a patient experiencing status epilepticus.