Etomidate was used in eight patients to control status epilepticus which had been refractory to previous anticonvulsant therapy. Cortical activity was measured using a Cerebral Function Analysing Monitor and etomidate administered to achieve a 5 microV mean amplitude, avoiding burst suppression if possible with obliteration of any paroxysmal increase in amplitude. Neuromuscular blockade facilitated endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation, and corticosteroid replacement was provided. Rapid control of seizure activity, with cardiovascular stability, was obtained in all cases. Initially the mean infusion rate of etomidate required to achieve adequate suppression of cortical activity was 25 micrograms kg-1 min-1, but several patients exhibited tachyphylaxis. Weaning from the infusion presented difficulties in four patients due to recurring seizures. Adrenocortical function returned to normal within 96 hrs of stopping the infusion. At six month follow up, two patients had died, and two patients had significant reduction in cerebral function compared with their pre-morbid state.