Antiepileptics

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Antiepileptics are used to help control seizures (fits) in dogs and cats. One type of medication may be used alone or with other medication. 

How do I give this medication?

- Give this medication to your pet 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(s) each day.

- DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give more often than directed.

- DO NOT stop giving this medication to your pet unless directed by your veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian in advance if your pet needs a repeat prescription.

- 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 the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

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.

Potential side effects

- Although a drug has potential side effects, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring. Tell your veterinarian if you think your pet may be pregnant.

- Your veterinarian may monitor your pet's blood to check liver function.

- At the start of treatment, your pet may show signs of hyperactivity, drowsiness, increased thirst or increased ingestion of food. Notify your veterinarian if symptoms are troublesome and continue.

- If your pet experiences extreme drowsiness, stupor, tremors or muscle pain, contact your veterinarian.

- Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible drug interactions

- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.

- 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.

- Drugs may interact such that they can cause an increased or decreased effect or side effects. Although drug interactions may occur, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring.

- Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.