How much phenobarbital can a cat have?
The recommended starting dose in cats is 2–3 mg/kg orally twice daily, and the drug requires 10–15 days to reach steady-state concentration after initiating therapy or changing dose.
How often should I give my Dog phenobarbital?
Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian. Most often, phenobarbital therapy in dogs is begun at 1 to 2 mg per pound (2 to 4 mg/kg) twice daily. In cats, phenobarbital is dosed at 7.5 to 15 mg per cat every 12 hours. Based on response, the dose may be increased up to 8 mg per pound (16 mg/kg) per day.
What are the different forms of phenobarbital for cats?
It comes in three forms: tablet, liquid and injection. For cats, injection is the most common method of administration, followed by liquid medication. Phenobarbital has an extraordinarily long half-life, so for many cats, a daily dosage is not required.
Why do dogs gain weight after Taking phenobarbital?
Weight gain in dogs could also be attributed to a voracious appetite. If they are eating more than normal, then they could also end up putting on a few pounds, especially if they are also feeling lethargic and not getting much exercise.
Can a dog be taken off phenobarbital cold turkey?
However, keep in mind that phenobarbital should never just be stopped cold turkey, as stopping cold turkey could trigger more seizures. Even when you take your dog slowly off phenobarbital under the supervision of your vet, your dog could still experience seizures during the withdrawal phase.
How is phenobarbital used in dogs and cats?
Phenobarbital for dogs and cats is a tablet that is given to control epilepsy in dogs and cats. It can be used as a lone therapy or along with other drugs to decrease the frequency and severity of your pet’s seizures.
How often should I Check my dogs phenobarbital levels?
For dogs taking both phenobarbital and bromide, the phenobarbital range is 9-36 ug/mL. Phenobarbital levels should be done every 6 months to a year. *Different foods, changes in environment or even the addition of supplements can change phenobarbital levels. If adding thyroid medication, check phenobarbital levels after 2 to 3 weeks.
How many milligrams of phenobarbital is one grain?
One grain of phenobarbital is equal to about 60mg; hence, 1/4 grain is about 15mg. Helpful? What is the correct doseage for a 50lb boxer? The usual dose of phenobarbital for dogs is 1-2 mg per pound given by mouth every 12 hours. Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dose for your pet’s condition.
When to take a blood test for phenobarbital?
To insure proper AND safe administering of phenobarbital, it is very important to monitor the level in the blood. This is done by obtaining a blood sample 4-5 hours AFTER a dose (peak). *Therapeutic range is 15-45 ug/mL. for dogs taking only phenobarbital. For dogs taking both phenobarbital and bromide, the phenobarbital range is 9-36 ug/mL.