How effective is zonisamide for dogs?

1-2 days
Zonisamide is administered by mouth, as an oral capsule, or it may be compounded into an oral liquid. This medication may be given with or without food, however, if your pet vomits or acts sick after receiving it, give this medication with food or a small treat. The medication should begin working within 1-2 days.

How long does zonisamide stay in a dog’s system?

MRI study and cerebrospinal fluid analysis in two dogs were unremarkable. The abnormal behavior episodes deteriorated along with gradual dose increment of zonisamide and these episodes almost completely disappeared within 5 days after discontinuation of zonisamide.

How effective is zonisamide for seizures?

Zonisamide was highly effective for treating partial seizures, with 70% of patients reporting improvement. More than half of patients with generalized seizures (58%) and half of patients with myoclonic and atypical absence seizures showed improvement with zonisamide treatment.

Will zonisamide make my dog sleepy?

2 As with most anticonvulsant drugs, zonisamide can cause drowsiness, incoordination (loss of muscle control), and a depressed appetite in dogs. It can also cause vomiting, loss of appetite, and in rare cases, skin reactions and liver problems.

What is the best anti seizure medication for dogs?

What is the best medicine for seizures in dogs? Phenobarbital. Potassium Bromide. Levetiracetam (Keppra®) . Zonisamide (Zonegran®) . Per Rectal Diazepam.

What is the best seizure medication for dogs?

Phenobarbitone is often the preferred first choice as it takes effect more quickly (within 2 weeks) than Potassium Bromide (3 to 6 months). Potassium Bromide can be used as first choice in animals with pre-existing liver disease or animals with very low seizure frequency.

Can zonisamide cause anxiety in dogs?

Side effects can include agitation, anxiety, ataxia, dehydration, depression, frequent urination, increased appetite, or lethargy. Zonisamide – Used to treat generalized seizures in canines but it is not commonly prescribed as it is very expensive.

Is zonisamide safe for dogs?

Zonisamide can be used in either cats or dogs to control seizures. It is typically used twice daily in dogs, usually as a supplement to phenobarbital. It has long-lasting activity in cats and can be used once daily, although use in cats is still new and the full potential for side effects is still being worked out.

What happens if my dog takes too much zonisamide?

If my pet gets too much of this medication (an overdose), what should I do? One-time overdoses of zonisamide may cause serious effects on the heart and lungs (eg, slow heart rate and breathing). If you witness or suspect an overdose, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center for further advice.

Can zonisamide cause seizures in dogs?

You should never stop giving zonisamide abruptly as seizures may occur. If the drug has an adverse effect on your dog, your veterinarian will advise you on the best course of action. Your veterinarian may also request blood level monitoring while your pet is receiving zonisamide.

Can zonisamide make seizures worse?

Serious side effects of zonisamide include: Increased or worsening seizures.

How long does it take to adjust to zonisamide?

It may take 2 weeks or longer before you feel the full benefit of zonisamide. Continue to take zonisamide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking zonisamide without talking to your doctor, even if you experience side effects such as unusual changes in behavior or mood.

Can zonisamide cause liver damage in dogs?

Considering the administration of zonisamide and chronic progressive hepatic lesions, zonisamide is considered as a main cause of the liver injury in the present case. Although zonisamide is widely used antiepileptic drug in dogs, there are few reports about liver toxicity.

How much zonisamide can I give my dog?

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian. In dogs, zonisamide is started at 2.5 to 5 mg per pound (5 to 10 mg/kg) twice daily. In cats, zonisamide is started at 2.5 mg per pound (5 mg/kg) twice daily.

Do dogs with seizures live long?

Approximately 40-60 percent of dogs with epilepsy have one or more episodes of cluster seizures or status epilepsy, and a mean lifespan of only 8 years, compared to 11 years for those with epilepsy without episodes status epilepsy.