Will my dog still have seizures on phenobarbital?
While the majority of dogs respond very well to Phenobarbital and/or potassium bromide, there are a few dogs that will continue to have a high seizure frequency despite having adequate serum levels of these medications, and are called “refractory”. For these dogs newer anticonvulsants may help.
How long does it take phenobarbital to stop seizures in dogs?
Phenobarbitone is often the preferred first choice as it takes effect more quickly (within 2 weeks) than Potassium Bromide (3 to 6 months).
Does phenobarbital work immediately in dogs?
It should start working to fully control seizures within a few weeks, although you may begin to notice some improvement sooner than that. It’s important not to suddenly stop phenobarbital, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms, including a return of seizures.
What are side effects of phenobarbital in dogs?
Common side effects in dogs include anxiety, agitation, lethargy, or sedation when therapy is started, and increased thirst, urination, and appetite or elevated liver enzymes on bloodwork are possible. Side effects such as incoordination may indicate a dose that is too high.
Why would a dog suddenly start having seizures?
Idiopathic epilepsy, the most common cause of seizures in the dog, is an inherited disorder, but its exact cause is unknown. Other causes include liver disease, kidney failure, brain tumors, brain trauma, or toxins. “Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in the dog.”
What is the best medication for dog with seizures?
Seizure Medications for Dogs Phenobarbital. One of the most commonly used medications to manage seizures in dogs is called phenobarbital. Levetiracetam. Much newer to the seizure medication market than phenobarbital, levetiracetam is a drug more often known by its brand name, Keppra®. Potassium Bromide. Diazepam or Midazolam. Zonisamide.
How much phenobarbital should my Dog have?
The most commonly recommended dose in dogs is 2-3 mg phenobarbital per kilogram of body weight given every 12 hours. In some cases, it helps to divide the daily dose into three equal doses given every 8 hours. Each patient is different and only the attending veterinarian should make specific recommendations.
How much phenobarbital can I give my Dog?
Dosage Of Phenobarbital For Dogs. The usual dosage of phenobarbital for dogs depends on body weight and individual response to the medication, and the absorption of the drug varies among breeds, so veterinary instructions must be strictly followed. Typically, the starting dosage for dogs is 1 to 2 mg per pound of body weight given twice daily.
What dog breeds are prone to seizures?
Some dogs are more genetically prone to seizures than others. Breeds more prone to developing genetic seizure disorders include Belgian Tervurens, Irish wolfhounds, German shepherds, Labrador retrievers, Bernese mountain dogs and English springer spaniels.
