What is better phenobarbital or potassium bromide?
When compared to phenobarbital, potassium bromide seems to be similarly effective and has fewer undesirable side effects. Potassium bromide may be used alone (as “monotherapy”) or can be combined with other anti-medications. Potassium bromide works by competing with chloride ions for access to brain tissues.
What does potassium bromide do for dogs with seizures?
Potassium bromide is an antiepileptic drug that is used in dogs to control seizures that are not controlled by phenobarbital alone, or in dogs that do not tolerate phenobarbital well. Potassium bromide works by decreasing seizure activity within the central nervous system.
Can phenobarbital make seizures worse in dogs?
Some epileptic dogs have a tendency to experience “cluster seizures” (2 or more seizures in a 24-hour period) even when being treated with Phenobarbital and potassium bromide.
What are the 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.
Is potassium bromide the same as phenobarbital?
Potassium bromide is a halide salt most commonly used as an add-on anticonvulsant drug to phenobarbital when the latter is ineffective or not as effective as desired. It also may permit you to decrease the dose level of the phenobarbital. Potassium bromide may also be used initially as the sole anticonvulsant drug.
Can potassium bromide hurt a dog?
As with any medication, potassium bromide does have the potential to cause side effects in dogs. The side effects that may be seen with potassium bromide include: Increased appetite. Increased thirst.
How long can a dog stay on phenobarbital?
Phenobarbital can cause liver damage (such as scarring in the liver) after prolonged use (over three months). In rare cases, it can even cause liver failure, which is why frequent blood tests are necessary for your vet to monitor the liver function.
Can phenobarbital cause death in dogs?
Yes, dogs can overdose on Phenobarbital. Phenobarbital toxicosis manifests with ataxia, heavy sedation, recumbency (inability to stand), hypothermia (decreased body temperature), coma, and even death. If case of accidental ingestion, call the vet or Animal Poison Control Helpline immediately.
Should I give my dog phenobarbital after a seizure?
Seizure treatment in dogs depends on the underlying cause, but phenobarbital is considered the first choice for chronic seizures. Phenobarbital is a relatively safe and well-tolerated option for dogs with seizures, but your dog will need to have regular blood tests done while taking this medication.
What are the side effects of potassium bromide in dogs?
The most common side effect is sedation that usually resolves on its own. Other possible side effects include irritability, restlessness, mild vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, increased appetite, increased thirst, and increased urination.
How often should I give my dog potassium bromide?
Your vet will usually prescribe your dog a dose of potassium bromide daily; however, if this medicine is upsetting your dog’s stomach, they may advise you to try smaller doses. If you are giving a liquid solution to your dog, you’ll need to inject it directly into their mouth with a plastic, needleless syringe.
How many seizures can a dog have before it dies?
A seizure that lasts for one or two minutes will not harm your dog. But any seizure that lasts for too long (five minutes or more) could result in death. Having more than one seizure in a day, which is referred to as cluster seizures, could also be fatal.
How long does it take for a dog to get used to phenobarbital?
You can give your dog phenobarbital with or without food. 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.
How much phenobarbital is too much for a dog?
This can be increased up to 8 mg per pound of body weight per day based on the dog’s response. It’s important to continue giving the drug to your dog for the full duration of the prescription and not miss a dose, as this can result in seizures. Overdose can result in nervous system depression.
Does potassium help with seizures?
The control of potassium homeostasis could be a potential therapeutic target to counteract seizure occurrence and progression.
What happens if you give a dog too much phenobarbital?
How does phenobarbital work for dogs with seizures?
Firstly, phenobarbital for dogs works best when it reaches a steady-state concentration in the blood at a therapeutic dose. This therapeutic range is relatively narrow. Your veterinarian assesses the drug dosage based on seizure recurrence and blood tests looking at serum levels of phenobarbital and liver enzymes.
What is pentobarbital for dogs and cats?
Overview of Pentobarbital for Dogs and Cats 1 Pentobarbital, commonly known as Solfoton® or Luminal Sodium®,… 2 It was first introduced into veterinary medicine in 1931 as an anesthetic agent. 3 Pentobarbital has been largely superseded by other anesthetics,… 4 Pentobarbital is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian…
Can you give a dog Keppra with phenobarbital?
The effect of Phenobarbital can either be increased or decreased when combined with many other drugs, including Keppra for dogs. You should always consult your vet if your dog is taking one or more medications before being put on Phenobarbital to avoid potentially harmful side effects.
Is pentobarbital safe for dogs with porphyria?
While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, pentobarbital may cause side effects in some animals. Pentobarbital should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug. It should also be avoided in animals with porphyria.