Why has my veterinarian prescribed Phenobarbital for my dog?
Phenobarbital is used to help control seizures in dogs. It may be used alone or with other medication.
How do I give Phenobarbital to my dog?
- Give this medication to your dog as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
- If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
- Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.
- DO NOT give your dog more medicine than directed and do not give more often than directed.
- DO NOT stop giving this medication to your dog unless directed by your veterinarian. Call your veterinarian ahead of time if your dog needs a refill.
- Try not to miss giving any doses.
What if I miss giving a dose?
Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your dog two doses at once.
How do I store Phenobarbital?
- Keep this medicine out of reach of children.Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature.
- Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
- Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.
What are the potential side effects?
- Upon initiation of therapy, dogs may show sign of anxiety and agitation.
- Other side effects may include: depression, excessive thirst, excessive ingestion of food and failure of muscle coordination. Notify your veterinarian if symptoms are troublesome and continue.
- If your dog experiences extreme drowsiness, stupor, tremors or muscle pain, contact your veterinarian.
- Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.
Are there any possible drug interactions?
- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your dog.
- Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
- The following drugs can potentially interact with phenobarbital: antihistamines, phenothiazines, narcotic agents, chloramphenicol, doxycycline, corticosteroids, beta blockers, quinidine, metronidazole, theophylline, griseofulvin, phenytoin and phenoxybenzamine.
- Contact your veterinarian if your dog experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.
REMEMBER! READ THE LABEL.
Based on material written by Rita Ozolins, B.Sc., Phm. and modified with permission from Lifelearn Inc.
© Copyright 2005 Lifelearn Inc.
