Doctors prescribe Topamax (topiramate), a prescription anticonvulsant medication, for treatment of epilepsy and migraine headaches. Like people, dogs can suffer from epileptic seizures; because of the relative newness of Topamax, however, veterinarians don't usually prescribe this as a first choice for canine epilepsy.
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Causes of Epilepsy in Dogs
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According to K9web.com, canine epilepsy can be genetic or brought on by toxins, tumors, metabolic disorders, nutritional deficiencies or injuries. An epileptic dog can have several different types of seizures, ranging from mild to severe.
When Medication is Needed
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If a dog has more than one seizure per month, he is a candidate for treatment with anticonvulsant medication.
First-Line Medications
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The first choice of medication for dogs remains phenobarbital, because of its widespread use and testing over 25 years. Other common choices includes primidone and potassium bromide.
Topamax
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According to the Canine Epilepsy website, Topamax is part of a "new generation" of anticonvulsant medications. A veterinarian will most likely use this as an additional medication (along with the first-line drug) when the single drug lacks full effectiveness.
Side Effects
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According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, common side effects of topirimate include gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea). Some dogs also get irritable or grumpy on this medication.
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