Many of the medications in common use do require regular lab


testing to monitor levels as well as to monitor for adverse effects. If one medication alone does not provide complete seizure control, it is com- mon to add a second anticonvulsant to the treatment regimen. The four medications most commonly used are Phenobarbital,


Potassium Bromide, Levetiracetam (Keppra) and Zonisamide (Zonegran). Several other medications are currently being studied for potential use as anti-convulsants in pets as well. All four medications have advantages and disadvantages, which should be discussed at the time of selection. Some have fairly predictable side effects, but they may be mild or more pronounced depending on the individual dog. Costs may vary as well. Seventy percent of dogs with epilepsy can be con- trolled well with medication.


CAN SEIZURE MEDICATION BE STOPPED? This is a tough question, as most patients with idiopathic epilepsy will have a recurrence of seizures if the anti-convulsant med- ication is stopped, especially if it is stopped abruptly. The consensus is to not try discontinuing medication unless the patient has been seizure free for a full year, and then do so under the direct guidance of the pre- scribing veterinarian, as each medication may be withdrawn a bit dif- ferently. In certain breeds, for which seizure control is notoriously dif- ficult, it is probably safer to never stop medication (German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Siberian Husky, Keeshond, St, Bernard).


U


OTHER INFORMATION SOURCES: www.canine-epilepsy.net/basics/basics_index.html www.canine-epilepsy.net/basics/basics_main.html www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com www.canine-epilepsy.com


Dr. Elizabeth F. Baird, DVM, CVPP, CCRT, CVMA, is shown here with her Golden Retrievers KeevaRue and Stitch. She owns and prac- tices at Country Oaks Animal Hospital & Kennel and Steele Pain Management & Rehabilitation Center, Palm Harbor. 727.785.6524.


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