Clobazam (CLB) is a commonly used oral antiepileptic drug (AED) that has been shown to be effective in various forms of epilepsy. Given its distinct 1,5-benzodiazepine structure, rapid absorption, minimal drug interactions, and favorable safety profile, CLB displays unique properties when compared to other commonly used benzodiazepines. Recent evidence has shown that CLB may demonstrate therapeutic efficacy in status epilepticus (SE). The objective of this systematic review was to summarize the available evidence pertaining to the efficacy of CLB use in SE. An electronic literature search of Medline (1946 to November 6, 2017), Embase (1974 to November 6, 2017), and the Cochrane Library (1999 to November 6, 2017) databases was performed to identify reports of CLB use in SE. After screening and full text review, a total of 15 articles were included: 8 retrospective studies, 2 case series, and 5 case reports. Efficacy rates for CLB have varied among reports. Overall, based on the retrospective studies, a total of 76 patients with SE have been reported. CLB was introduced within 2-4 days from SE onset and has been reported to contribute to remission in 36 patients (47%). CLB maintenance dose ranged from 10 to 60 mg/day. However, the results need to be interpreted carefully because SE patients are a heterogeneous group with different etiologies and disease severities, and the response to CLB might vary in different patient population or seizure types. In conclusion, there is not sufficient evidence to determine the safety and efficacy of clobazam in the setting of SE. However, the current limited evidence combined with the unique characteristics of CLB suggest that the drug might be considered as an add-on option in SE patients, with a suggested dosage range of 10-60 mg/day. Prospective studies are needed to fully establish the role of CLB in the management of SE.
Keywords: Clobazam; Refractory status epilepticus; Seizure; Status epilepticus.