Epilepsy in dogs is a severe and life-threatening condition that must be controlled through veterinarian-prescribed medications. Once a dog is experiencing severe seizures, medications must be quickly administered to stop the seizures. After the seizures are controlled, veterinarians will decide what type of medication to prescribe for daily use in order to control epileptic seizures in dogs.
Medications to Halt Current Epileptic Seizures
Medications that may be administered to stop current seizures from occurring include benzodiazepines (diazepam or clonazepam) and the anti-convulsant medication phenobarbital.
The benzodizapines are administered as a first line sedation to allow the placement of an IV catheter in a dog currently experiencing seizures. Phenobarbital is administered to reduce and stop the seizures.
These medications must be administered through intravenous (IV) routes as dogs cannot be given any oral medications while they are seizing. Phenobarbital is administered on an hourly basis until the seizures are controlled. Once the seizures are controlled, oral medications are prescribed to control future epileptic seizures.
Medication to Prevent or Reduce Epileptic Seizures
Oral phenobarbital is usually the type of medication prescribed to control epilepsy in dogs. The medication is available in a pill form, and the dose is usually every 12 hours (twice a day). Side effects of phenobarbital use in dogs include lethargy, extreme thirst, frequent urination and an increase in appetite. Phenobarbital side effects generally last for 2 weeks, until the dog develops a tolerance to the medication.
Phenobarbital Alternative
Oral bromide, also known as potassium or sodium salt, is used in uncommon instances when dogs cannot tolerate phenobarbital medication. This oral medication must be given twice a day with food, and it can cause side effects such as nausea, gastrointestinal irritation, lethargy, inflammation of the pancreas, increased thirst, increased appetite and increased urination.
Combination Medications
If phenobarbital does not effectively control seizures in epileptic dogs, additional medications may be prescribed. Diazepam (administered rectally), clonazepam, chlorazepate dipotassium, valproic acid, mephenytoin and levetiracetam may all be combined with phenobarbital to help control seizures in dogs. Most of these medications must be given two to three times a day along with phenobarbital doses.
Considerations
Epilepsy in dogs can sometimes be difficult to control, and pet owners can help their veterinarians to find the right medication (or combination medication) by keeping track of their dog's behavior and any side effects that occurred while they were on medication. Pet owners should also take diligent notes of the time any seizures occurred, how long they lasted, their severity and what time medications were administered.
Due to the side effects that are caused by many combination medications, pet owners will need to ensure their epileptic dog receives frequent veterinarian exams along with regular blood tests to monitor organ function and blood health.
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