Seizures are defined as “paroxysmal, uncontrolled electrical discharge of neurons in the brain that disrupts normal function” (Lewis, Dirksen, Heitkemper, Butcher, & Camera, 20011). Seizures can be caused by various factors, from head trauma to a disease process. There are different types of seizures. These include partial and generalized seizures. They can also vary in intensity, from mild to complete. Seizures can cause serious complications and the cause of the seizures must be treated or corrected. (Lewis, Dirksen, Heitkemper, Butcher, & Camera, 20011). Phenobarbital is classified as an anticonvulsant. This classification of drugs is used to “decrease the incidence and severity of epileptic seizures” (Deglin et al, 2011). The drug works by depressing the central nervous system and preventing it from reaching a level that causes seizures. This medication can be administered in several ways. It can be administered orally, intramuscularly, subcutaneously, and as an IV drug. After being absorbed into the body, it is metabolized by the liver. The drug is used by the body and then excreted through the kidneys. A patient should not be given this medication if he or she has high drug sensitivity, liver or kidney problems, experiences uncontrolled pain, or suffers from respiratory disease. The patient should not take if breastfeeding and should take with caution if pregnant. (Deglin et al, 2011) The dosage of phenobarbital varies greatly depending on the drug administered for treatment. If it is given to manage seizures, the dosage administered is “1-3 mg/kg/day as a single dose or in 2 divided doses” (Deglin et al, 2011). It can also be given as an IV medication for status epilepticus. The dosage for this is "15-18 mg/kg in a single or split... half of the paper... Works CitedDeglin, J.H., Dallerand, A.H., & Sanoski, CA (2011). Davis Nurses' Drug Guide, twelfth edition. PL Clearly, ed. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: F.A. Davis Company.Nimaga, K, D. Desplats, O. Doumbo, and G. Farnarier. “Phenobarbital Treatment and Monitoring of epileptic patients in rural areas of Mali. (Research)." World Health Organization Bulletin 80.7 (July 2002): 532(6). Nursing Resource Center. Gale. South Florida Community College, CCLA. March 6, 2012. Lewis, SL, Dirksen, SR, Heitkemper, M.M., Butcher, L., & Camera, I.M. (20011). (J. Horn and K. Green, eds.) St. Louis, Missouri: Wiley Blackwell Publishing.