How much phenobarbital can I give my cat?
Give Phenobarbital exactly as it is prescribed by your veterinarian for your pet. For cats, the usual dose ranges from 7.5-15 mg given by mouth every 12 hours. For dogs, the usual dose is about 1-2 mg per pound given by mouth every 12 hours.
What is a toxic level of phenobarbital?
The therapeutic reference range of phenobarbital is 10-30 mcg/mL. The toxic reference range of phenobarbital is >40 mcg/mL.
Is phenobarbital safe for cats?
In dogs and cats, the barbiturate phenobarbital is probably the first choice to suppress seizures. It is effective, safe if used responsibly, reasonably priced, and conveniently dosed, all of which makes it a popular choice.
Do seizures cause brain damage in cats?
It is important that a cat having regular seizures (more than one every six to eight weeks) receives treatment even if the cause is not understood. This is because each seizure can lead to further brain damage and increase the likelihood of more severe seizures and complications.
What are the signs of barbiturate poisoning?
Symptoms of barbiturate intoxication and overdose include:
- Altered level of consciousness.
- Difficulty in thinking.
- Drowsiness or coma.
- Faulty judgment.
- Lack of coordination.
- Shallow breathing.
- Slow, slurred speech.
- Sluggishness.
What would happen if you overdose on phenobarbital?
An overdose of phenobarbital can be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include slow or shallow breathing, weak pulse, cold or clammy skin, little or no urination, pinpoint pupils, feeling cold, or fainting. Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects. This medication may impair your thinking or reactions.
How much phenobarbital can cause death?
In general, an oral dose of 1 gram of most barbiturates produces serious poisoning in an adult. Death commonly occurs after 2 to 10 grams of ingested barbiturate.
Can phenobarbital cause liver damage?
Phenobarbital has been linked to rare instances of idiosyncratic liver injury that can be severe and even fatal.
Can prednisolone affect a cat’s breathing?
Asthma is a terrifying ailment pet owners face. It’s normal to want to treat your cats breathing difficulties as quickly as possible. However, prednisone, while extremely effective, does pose serious health risks if not used with extreme care.
Does phenobarbital cause loss of appetite?
Because Phenobarbital may also decrease other neurotransmitters, common side effects may include lethargy and loss of coordination, as well as: Increased appetite, which may lead to weight gain. Increased thirst and urination. Anxiety. Anemia.
Does phenobarbital cause memory loss?
Excessive and long-term use of barbiturates, such as phenobarbital, may produce the following chronic symptoms: Changes in alertness Decreased functioning Irritability Memory loss
Does phenobarbital cause ataxia?
Ataxia is a potential side effect of certain medications, especially barbiturates, such as phenobarbital; sedatives, such as benzodiazepines; antiepileptic drugs, such as phenytoin; and some types of chemotherapy. Vitamin B-6 toxicity also may cause ataxia. These causes are important to identify because the effects are often reversible.