Keppra for dogs, the brand for levetiracetam, is one of medications that can be used for seizures treatment in cats and dogs. Levetiracetam is a new medicine to control seizures in pets since the prior medication (such as potassium bromide and phenobarbital) can lead to other serious health problems because some animals cannot tolerate them well. Potassium bromide, for example, can’t be used in cats because it may lead to lung disease. In addition, it can also be the cause of pancreatitis. On the other hand, Phenobarbital has been associated with liver damage since it requires extensive metabolism. Therefore, levetiracetam is safe for dogs, and it doesn’t have any effects on the liver. In this case, Keppra or levetiracetam may be the best seizure medication for dogs.
For your information, seizure is a condition when there is increased electrical activity because the brain’s neurons are continuously and quickly discharging. Epilepsy and seizures are commonly diagnosed in dogs. Well, watching your dog is going through a seizure surely makes you panic, but in most cases, this condition is not life-threatening. Meanwhile, epilepsy is a condition with two or more seizures, that usually 24 hours apart, at least. This condition can be caused by a genetic-related, metabolic or toxic reaction. The dogs with brain tumors also reported having seizures as their common condition.
To control seizures in dogs, you can use levetiracetam alone as an anticonvulsant medication, or in conjunction with other medications (according to your vet’s suggestions). This medicine can also be given with or without foods. Keppra for dogs is available in various dosages, ranging from 500mg to 750mg. In many cases, it must be given 3 times daily and also available in injectable form. In addition, the medicine is quickly broken down in the body, so do not be worried about overdoses cases. In fact, most dogs and cats can tolerate the levetiracetam well.
However, just like any other medications, this one has some side effects. In cats, it can lead to drool, listlessness, and appetite reduction. Meanwhile in dogs, the main side effect is drowsiness, followed by other side effects, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or even changes in behavior. Therefore, you need to always observe the dog’s condition during this medical treatment. Just make sure to use this medication with your vet’s advice because some serious side effects or even death may occur if you use Keppra for dogs without any professional’s suggestion.
