Seizure medication

Unfortunately, seizure medications do not cure seizures in pets. Instead, they aim to reduce the frequency and severity of your pet's seizures. If you discontinue the medication without completely resolving the underlying cause of the seizures, they are likely to recur. For most neurological diseases, once seizure medication is started, it becomes a lifelong necessity.

These medications may not entirely eliminate seizures. The objective is to find a balance in dosage that maximizes seizure control while minimizing medication side effects. All medications have potential side effects. Achieving this balance between managing seizures and side effects varies in difficulty among different patients. Open communication with your veterinarian about any concerns regarding your pet’s medication and its side effects is crucial in establishing an effective treatment plan.

Diseases and metabolic rates can change over time. Consequently, your veterinarian might need to adjust the medication dosage or type. Maintaining a seizure log and having regular veterinary checkups are vital for your pet's ongoing health management.

Once your pet starts on seizure medication, it's crucial to administer it consistently and on schedule. Ensure you have a refill ready at least a week before your current supply runs out. Setting reminders on your watch or phone can be a helpful way to remember the dosing times.

While adhering to the schedule is important, unexpected situations occur. Don’t panic if you're delayed due to traffic and are an hour late in administering your pet's medication. Also, there's no need to wake up in the middle of the night for a dose. For pets on medication three times a day, we recommend giving it first thing in the morning, in the afternoon, and before bed. Strive for a regular, consistent schedule, but an hour’s deviation earlier or later is not critical. If a dose is missed, administer it as soon as possible.

If you find the medication regimen overwhelming, discuss this with your veterinary team. There might be alternative options that are more manageable for you and your family.

However, it’s imperative not to stop or alter the dosage of seizure medication without consulting your veterinarian. Seizure medications are safe when used correctly, but inappropriate use can lead to harmful side effects. We're here to assist you in making these decisions.

For pets experiencing particularly severe seizures, veterinarians may prescribe a rescue medication. This type of medication is administered during or immediately after a seizure and may be continued for a few days. The primary purpose of rescue medications is to halt an ongoing seizure or to reduce the likelihood of subsequent seizures.

Managing your pet's epilepsy involves a collaborative effort with your veterinary team. Different veterinarians may have slightly varied approaches to treatment, much like chefs have their own methods of preparing a classic marinara sauce using the same ingredients. This is why it's crucial to designate one veterinarian to oversee your pet's seizure management. Think of them as the head chef in this scenario, ensuring consistency and coherence in treatment. Multiple veterinarians managing the same case can lead to disorganization and confusion.

In the event of a medical emergency, follow the recommendations of the emergency veterinarian. Once the emergency is resolved, however, make an appointment with the veterinarian responsible for your pet's seizure management to review and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.

Additionally, it’s vital to consult your veterinary team before making any changes to your pet’s medication regimen. While seizure medications are generally safe when used as directed, unsupervised alterations can lead to serious complications. Remember, we are always here to support and guide you through your pet’s healthcare journey.