What is Phenobarbital?
Long-standing seizure medication for dogs and cats.
At Pharmacy on the Park, Phenobarbital is compounded in our pharmacy from a prescription, in the strength and form your veterinarian orders.
How does it work?
Boosts the brain's main calming signal (GABA), reducing seizure activity.
What is it used for?
Long-standing seizure medication for dogs and cats. Your veterinarian determines the use, dose and monitoring.
How is it used?
- Flavored oral suspension. Flavored suspensions are shaken well and measured with the oral syringe we provide, then given by mouth.
- Capsule. Capsules are swallowed by mouth. For pets, a capsule can often be hidden in a small treat if your veterinarian agrees.
- Oral liquid. Oral liquids are shaken well and measured with the oral syringe we provide.
- Tablet. Tablets are taken by mouth as directed on your label.
- Transdermal gel (PLO). Transdermal gel comes in pre-measured syringes. Wearing a glove, rub the measured amount into the hairless inner ear, alternating ears if directed.
Follow the directions on your label. The strength, amount and schedule are set by your veterinarian.
Side effects and safety
Commonly reported: Sedation, increased thirst, appetite and urination; requires liver monitoring. Call your veterinarian or us about any reaction that concerns you.
Who should use caution?
Pets with liver disease. Needs regular blood level and liver monitoring. Share your full medical history and medication list with your veterinarian.
How should it be stored?
Check your label: many flavored liquids are refrigerated. Shake well before each dose. Check your label: some liquids are refrigerated. Shake well before each dose. Store syringes as directed on the label, capped and away from heat. Always follow the storage directions and beyond-use date on your label, and keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
Why is it compounded?
Most medications are made for people, in strengths and forms that don’t suit pets. Compounding lets us prepare Phenobarbital in the exact strength your veterinarian orders, in forms such as flavored oral suspension, capsule, oral liquid. Flavoring helps pets and people take it more easily. We can also leave out dyes, fillers or allergens when needed.