Life-threatening status epilepticus following gabapentin administration in a patient with benign adult familial myoclonic epilepsy.

We report the case of a 57-year-old man who experienced life-threatening myoclonic status after the administration of gabapentin. Based on familial data, the patient was determined to be a member of a previously described family with benign adult familial myoclonic epilepsy (BAFME). The myoclonic status did not respond to benzodiazepines, but resolved after discontinuing the gabapentin. As for other idiopathic generalized epilepsies, gabapentin may precipitate myoclonic status in a benign syndrome, such as BAFME, as is reported herein for the first time. A correct diagnosis and prompt discontinuation of the drug may reverse a potentially severe, life-threatening condition.