Phenobarbital Tablets

What is Phenobarbital Tablets?

Phenobarbital for dogs and cats is a tablet that is given to control epilepsy in dogs and cats. It can be used as a lone therapy or along with other drugs to decrease the frequency and severity of your pet's seizures. Phenobarbital may also be used for other purposes not listed here. It is sold per tablet. Phenobarbital requires a prescription from your veterinarian and is classified as a schedule IV controlled substance.

For:

Dogs and Cats

Benefits:

• Controls seizures
• Reduces frequency and severity of seizures

How do Phenobarbital Tablets work?

Phenobarbital both decreases and stabilizes the neuron activity in your pet's brain, which can help reduce the number of seizures your pet experiences. It increases activity in the GABA neurotransmitter, which is what calms the nerves; and it decreases activity in the Glutamate neurotransmitter, which reduces nerve-stimulating properties.

Cautions:

Phenobarbital may be habit forming. Tolerance and psychological and physical dependence may occur with continued use. Use with caution when giving Phenobarbital to pets with Addison's Disease, kidney disease, liver disease, respiratory abnormalities, or anemia. Phenobarbital may interact with other drugs so it's best to consult with your veterinarian if your pet is on other medication. After prolonged use, Phenobarbital may cause significant liver impairment.

Brand Name

Luminal

Generic Name:

Phenobarbital

What is the most important thing I should know about Phenobarbital Tablets?

Phenobarbital may be habit forming. Tolerance and psychological and physical dependence may occur with continued use. It is classified as a schedule IV controlled substance. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the correct dosage for your pet and follow the instructions exactly when administering Phenobarbital to your pet. Do not stop giving Phenobarbital suddenly as it may cause your pet to have a seizure.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Phenobarbital Tablets to my pet?

Consult with your veterinarian if your pet is suffering from Addison's disease, kidney disease, liver disease, respiratory abnormalities, or anemia. Also, tell your veterinarian if your pet has any allergies to any medications.

How should Phenobarbital Tablets be given?

Give Phenobarbital exactly as it is prescribed by your veterinarian for your pet. For cats, the usual dose ranges from 7.5-15 mg given by mouth every 12 hours. For dogs, the usual dose is about 1-2 mg per pound given by mouth every 12 hours. Do not stop giving suddenly. Sudden withdrawal may cause your pet to have a seizure.

What are the potential side effects of Phenobarbital Tablets?

Because Phenobarbital decreases the Glutamate neurotransmitter in the brain, it can also decrease other neuron activity. Side effects of Phenobarbital may include anxiety, lethargy, sedation, increase in water intake, increase in appetite, increase in urination, anemia, and weight gain. Usually if a pet is going to experience side effects it happens in the first few weeks of starting the medication or when the dosage is increased.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Phenobarbital Tablets?

Give the missed dose as soon as possible. If the next dose is due soon, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Don't give your pet two doses at once. Missed doses may cause your pet to have a seizure.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Phenobarbital Tablets?

Seek emergency veterinary medical attention if you think you have given your pet too much Phenobarbital. An overdose on Phenobarbital can be fatal. Signs of an overdose may include loss of appetite, vomiting, trouble breathing, jaundice, sedation, and coma.

What should I avoid while giving Phenobarbital Tablets to my pet?

Do not give to pets with severe respiratory dysfunction, liver disease, or pets with a known sensitivity to other anti-seizure medications.

What other drugs will affect Phenobarbital Tablets?

Consult with your veterinarian if your pet is on any other medication. The following drugs may affect Phenobarbital: anticoagulants, antihistamines, beta-adrenergic blocker, Diazepam (and other central nervous system depressants), corticosteroids, opiate agonists, Phenothiazine, Aminophylline, Chloramphenicol, Doxycycline, Furosemide, Griseofulvin, Metronidazole, Phenytoin sodium, Quinidine, Rifampin, Theophylline, and Valproic acid.