Phenobarbital is used to prevent seizures.

•May be given with or without food

•Drowsiness, lack of energy, anxiety, and agitation are common side effects when beginning phenobarbital, but should get better over time. Other side effects may include increased hunger, thirst, and urination.

•Liver problems can occur with phenobarbital. Contact your veterinarian if your animal has a loss of appetite, swollen abdomen, or yellowing of the skin, eyes, or gums.

•Do not suddenly stop giving this medication, as seizures or severe side effects can occur.

•This medication is a controlled substance that must only be used in the animal it was prescribed for. It is illegal to give or sell it to anyone else.

Description

•Anticonvulsant

•Available as oral tablets and liquids

Uses

Phenobarbital is conditionally approved for control of seizures in dogs with epilepsy. This means that the FDA has found this medication safe to use but is continuing to gather information about how well it works.

Before this medication is given

No medication is 100% safe in all patients. Discuss with your veterinarian:

•Any other medications or supplements your animal is taking. This medication can interact with many other drugs.

•Any conditions or diseases your animal currently has or has had in the past

•Any side effects your animal has had to medications in the past

•The risks of using this medication if your animal is pregnant or nursing

Warnings for animals

Do not use in animals:

•That are allergic to it or medications like it, such as primidone

•With severe liver disease

Use with caution in animals with:

•Lung, kidney, or heart disease

•Reduced adrenal gland function

•Low red blood cell counts (anemia)

Certain medications are not allowed in some animal competitions. Check rules and regulations when your animal is taking a medication.

Warnings for humans

•Wash your hands after handling any medication.

•This medication is a controlled substance that must only be used in the animal it was prescribed for. It is illegal to give or sell it to anyone else.

How do I give this medication?

•Give with or without food.

•Measure liquids using an oral syringe, medicine cup, or dosing spoon. Do not use household measuring devices.

Give exactly as your veterinarian has prescribed. Always follow the instructions on the prescription label.

Side effects

Common – contact your veterinarian if any of these signs are severe, continue to occur, or worsen over time:

•Drowsiness or lack of energy. This usually gets better over time.

•Agitation or anxiety (appearing nervous, upset, or unable to relax). This usually gets better over time.

•Increased appetite or weight gain

•Increased thirst and urination

•Facial itchiness

Severe – stop the medication and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any of these signs:

•Uncoordinated movement, weakness, or stumbling

•Bleeding, infections, pale gums, or tiring easily. These can be signs of decreased blood cell counts.

•Skin rashes or ulcers

•Complete loss of appetite, vomiting, abdominal swelling, or yellowing of the skin, eyes, or gums (jaundice). These may be signs of liver problems.

How will I know it's working?

•You will not be able to see the effects of this medication. Your veterinarian will perform follow-up tests to determine how well your animal is tolerating the medication and evaluate how well it is working.

•This medication may take a few weeks to reach its full effect.

•Contact your veterinary clinic if your animal’s seizures worsen or do not improve.

How long will the medication effects last?

•The effect of this medication may last for a few days after the last dose.

•It may last longer if your animal has reduced kidney or liver function.

How long do I give it for?

This medication can be given for different lengths of time but is often a lifelong medication. Give it for as long as your veterinarian tells you. Make sure to refill the prescription to avoid interruptions in treatment.

Do not suddenly stop giving this medication.

•When discontinuing, the dose needs to be decreased gradually over time to prevent side effects and withdrawal seizures.

•Your veterinarian will provide tapering instructions.

Overdose

If you witness or suspect an overdose, call your veterinarian or an animal-specific poison control center (consultation fee applies):

•ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435

•Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Have the product or label with you if possible.

Missed dose

In most cases, if you miss a dose:

•Give it when you remember, then return to the regular dosing schedule.

If it is close to the time for the next dose:

•Skip the missed dose.

•Give the next dose at the next scheduled time.

•Continue the regular dosing schedule.

If you are unsure, call your veterinary clinic. Do not double-up or give extra doses.

Storage

•Store in the original container at room temperature.

•Protect from light.

•Keep out of reach of children and animals.

•Because this medication is a controlled substance, store it in a secure spot that is out of sight.

Disposal

Because this medication is a controlled substance, dispose of any unused medication as soon as possible. Do not flush this medication down the toilet or wash it down the sink. Options for disposing of unused or expired medications include:

•Drug take-back sites: This is preferred whenever possible. To find a site near you, contact your local law enforcement or waste management authorities.

•Home disposal: Mix the medication in with coffee grounds or kitty litter, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away in the trash.

Do not save leftover medication or give it to others to use.