The Use of Anticonvulsants in Dogs

Dogs may suffer from seizure disorders just as humans do. Most seizures are controllable using anticonvulsant medications, but a veterinarian will first determine if there is an underlying cause for the seizures. When a dog must take anticonvulsants, they will most likely do so for the remainder of their lives.

  1. Identification

    • An anticonvulsant drug is a medication that is prescribed by a veterinarian to prevent seizures in dogs. Seizures in dogs may be due to epilepsy or an underlying progressive disorder.

    Function

    • Your veterinarian may feel it necessary to prescribe anticonvulsants for your dog's seizures if he has multiple seizures within a relatively short period of time, seizures that become frequent and severe, or if the dog's first seizure is life-threatening. Most veterinarians will prescribe daily anticonvulsant medication for dogs that are having more than one seizure a month or in dogs that become aggressive after the seizure.

    Types

    • There are many types of anticonvulsants that are effective in humans, but the same medications are not always as effective in dogs. The two most common types of anticonvusants that are prescribed in the treatment of seizures in dogs are phenobarbitone and bromide. Primidone is a medication that has been used in dogs and cats, but is less commonly prescribed now due to the fact that it is not tolerated as well in dogs as bromide and phenobarbitone. Primidone has been found to be more expensive and less effective.

    Benefits

    • One of the most important aspects in the success of anticonvulsant therapy in dogs is the owner's commitment to treatment. It is imperative that a dogs takes his anticonvulsants around the same time each day and at the correct dosage. Medication may not be able to eliminate seizures in dogs, but anticonvulsants can help your dog lead an active, normal life.

    Considerations

    • Dogs that take anticonvulsants may experience withdrawal symptoms if the medication is suddenly withdrawn. Veterinarians may consider weaning dogs from anticonvulsants if they have been completely seizure-free for one year or more. Drug doses should be tapered down over time, and it may take six to 12 months before the dog is totally free from the anticonvulsant medications.