Primidone

Generic Name of Primidone: Primidone

Indications for Primidone

Primidone is one of the most effective anticonvulsant drug prescribed by veterinarians to control seizures and epilepsy in dogs. This prescription medication is available as scored tablets. In dogs, this medication is found to effectively reduce the frequency of seizures and controls the attack of epilepsy. Primidone works by getting metabolized in the body into Phenobarbital, an anti-convulsant drug and some other metabolites.

Precautions when using Primidone

Dogs suffering from conditions like dehydration, anemia, Addison’s disease, heart disease, kidney or liver disease and respiratory diseases should not be administered with this medication. Dogs allergic to barbiturates can also be allergic to this medication.Do not administer to pregnant or nursing animals. There are chances of primidone interacting with drugs like furosemide, griseofulvin or Rifampin, and therefore be cautious when using it along with these drugs. Do not use drugs like coumadin, corticosteroids (such as prednisone), beta-blockers (such as atenolol), quinidine, theophylline and metronidazole, when the pet is being administered with primidone, as it decreases the effect of these drugs.

Side Effects of Primidone

The most notable side effects induced by this medication are anxiety and agitation as well as increased thirst, urination, lethargy and appetite. In some cases, side effects can seriously affect the liver, leading to fatal liver damage.

Dosage for Primidone

Overdose can cause symptoms of depression, increased thirst and urination, hunger, sedation, increased heart rate, skin disease, hyperventilation (panting), vomiting, kidney disease, liver disease, coma, and death. To control convulsions, in initial stages of treatment, a dosage of 7 to 10 mg/pound is acceptable. In dogs, the administration should be done in two or three equal doses at a dosage of 5 to 15 mg per pound a day. Since primidone is believed to affect the liver badly, sometimes it is advised to give Denosyl (SAMe) while administering this medication to supplement the liver. It is not recommended to use this medication in cats, unless in extreme conditions. However, in some cases, Phenobarbital can be used as an ideal substitute for primidone in cats. While administering this medication in dogs take care to conduct liver tests and monitoring.

Brand Names of Primidone

Neurosyn (Boehringer Ingleheim), Mysoline (Athena Neuroscience)