Is it safe to suddenly stop my dog's phenobarbital medication?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  No you cannot, and i wouldn't recommend you to take him off before you discuss the matter with your veterinarian.

  

  16Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

  Veterinarian

  I do apologize I mispoke earlier.
  
  The only medication that can be taken off abruptly for seizures is Potassium Bromide.
  
  Please make the correction in the previous statement.
  
  Phenobarbitol should be tapered gradually 25% every 1 week over the course of a month to avoid having refractory seizures that will be at increased intensity. You should discuss with your vet about other anti-seizure options which include Keppra, Potassium Bromide or Zonisamide. It is not uncommon to have a seizure patient on several anti-seizure medications to help manage seizures. Thank you for noting my previous statement error and hopefully you can open up further discussion with your vet about the best course of action moving forward for your pets care.

  

  28Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 8th, 2017

  Hi there! It is not wise to substitute medications when your dog is a controlled seizure patient on phenobarbital. These medications do not work like phenobarbital in our dogs and will not have the same effect. You need to contact an emergency vet or try to call another to see if they will fill your script until you can get in to see your regular office on Monday. Otherwise you are risking the health of your friend. Hope this helps.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on January 27th, 2020

  Hello. The best way to do this is to cut the dose by 50% every 10 days. So, give 1 tablet once a day for 10 days, then 1/2 tablet once a day for 10 days, then 1/2 tablet every other day for 10 doses ( 20 days ). If you see any signs of tremors, weakness, or even a mild seizure, go back to the last previous decrease for another 5 days & try dropping it again. Your pet was not on the medication for very long, but there may already been some modifications in brain chemicals. Best to always go slow. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful