Potassium Bromide & Canine Behavior

Potassium bromide is a drug used in dogs that have epilepsy. Because the drug had serious side effects in humans, it never received an FDA approval. According to the Canine Epilepsy Network website, veterinarians get permission from the FDA to use potassium bromide on dogs, since it is effective and reliable in canines and has few side effects.

  1. Potassium Bromide

    • According to the Mar Vista website, "potassium bromide works by competing with chloride ions for access to brain tissues." It decreases electrical activity in the central nervous system, thereby decreasing seizure activity as well.

    Side Effects

    • Potassium bromide can cause nausea, vomiting, excessive thirst and urination, constipation or coughing. The most common side effect is drowsiness or lethargy. It can also cause stumbling. A dog on this drug may become less active as time goes by.

    Overdose

    • According to the Wedgewood Pharmacy website, an overdose of potassium bromide occurs over time as it builds up in the dog's system. Signs of an overdose include profound sedation, muscle pain, tremors, stupor or unsteady or staggering movements.