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acute danger to life

Seizure

When When someone has a seizure — uncontrolled convulsions, loss of consciousness, possibly pauses in breathing.

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Content is undergoing medical and legal review. Changes possible.

Emergency

Call 112. Calling for help is required by law (German Criminal Code § 323c). levelll cannot promise immunity from criminal or administrative consequences.

Immediate

  1. 1. Call 112 if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or a second one follows immediately.
  2. 2. Secure the surroundings. Move anything hard out of the way, cushion the head (a folded jacket).
  3. 3. As soon as the convulsions ease off: recovery position, check breathing, stay with the person until they are responsive.

Don't do

  • Don't put anything in their mouth. Swallowing the tongue is a myth, the risk of injury is real — for both of you.
  • Don't hold them down or pin them. Risk of injury, doesn't help.
  • Don't try to stop the convulsions. They stop on their own.

Substance-induced seizures typically occur with:

  • Stimulant overdose (cocaine, amphetamines, MDMA) — overstimulation, hyperthermia
  • GABA withdrawal after prolonged use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, GHB/GBL — withdrawal seizure
  • Serotonin syndrome (see its own scenario) — seizures as a late symptom

First-ever seizure or a seizure after a head injury: always call 112, even if it lasts under 5 minutes.

After the seizure, confusion, fatigue and gaps in memory are normal. The person needs someone with them until they are clear again — and a medical check-up as the next step.