Similar to other anti-seizure medications such as Gabapentin for dogs, the most often experienced side effects of Keppra in dogs are drowsiness and loss of coordination. Unlike these drugs, Keppra isn’t thought to harm the liver or liver enzymes and is generally believed to have a better safety profile.
Similarly, does Keppra cause behavior problems in dogs?
1/14 dogs developed aggressive behavior for the first time after increasing the dose (28.7 mg/kg TID to 37.5 mg/kg QID). Moreover, intensification of behavioral abnormalities occurred within the first 2 weeks in eight of the 14 dogs.
Likewise, how long does it take for a dog to adjust to Keppra?
The median time between initiation of levetiracetam treatment to owner response was 22.15 months (range, 0.4–75.7 months).
What is the best time to take Keppra?
Keppra must be taken two times a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, at about the same time each day. Taking Keppra at the same time each day will have the best effect. It will also help you remember when to take the tablets/oral solution. It does not matter if you take Keppra before or after food.
How long does Keppra stay in a dog’s system?
Levetiracetam (Keppra®) is characterized by a half-life of 2 to 4 hrs in dogs (regular release) and 4 to 7 hrs in cats; variability among animals is likely to be marked. For extended release, the half-live may be 1-2 hrs longer.
How well does Keppra control seizures in dogs?
One further dog responded to levetiracetam treatment. Levetiracetam responders had a significant decrease in seizure frequency of 77% (7.9+/-5.2 to 1.8+/-1.7 seizures/month) and a decrease in seizure days per month of 68% (3.8+/-1.7 to 1.2+/-1.1 seizure days/month).
Does Keppra work well for dogs?
Keppra is a prescription medication used to treat seizures and epilepsy in dogs. It can be used alone, or in conjunction with other anticonvulsants such as phenobarbital or potassium bromide. Keppra is relatively safe for dogs, but studies are still looking into other possible side effects.
How much Keppra should I give my dog?
In dogs, Levetiracetam is often started at 5 to 10 mg per pound (10 to 20 mg/kg) three times daily (every 8 hours). Higher doses are often needed for emergency treatment of active seizures including doses up to 20 mg/kg.
Can I give my dog Keppra twice a day?
Keep it as consistent as you can. Always give potassium bromide with food and at the same time every day. If you give KBr twice a day, give it 12 hours apart. Keppra is administered every eight hours (3x/day).
What is the best anti seizure medication for dogs?
What is the best medicine for seizures in dogs?
- Potassium Bromide. …
- Levetiracetam (Keppra®) …
- Zonisamide (Zonegran®) …
- Premidone. …
- Per Rectal Diazepam. …
- Modified diet. …
- Supplements. …
- Acupuncture. Many pet parents feel that this ancient Chinese treatment is very helpful in reducing the number of seizures their dog experiences.