Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is it safe to suddenly stop my dog's phenobarbital medication?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Havanese | 2 years old

Can I take my dog off of phenobarbital all at once

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 26th, 2016

Yes there is no required tapering of this drug to get pets off of it. However keep in mind that once you take your pet off it takes 10 weeks for the effects of the drug to disappear. If you are looking for other anti-seizure medication options and would like to discuss these I am also available for further discussion if you wish.

Vote icon

39Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    No you cannot, and i wouldn't recommend you to take him off before you discuss the matter with your veterinarian.

    Vote icon

    16Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I do apologize I mispoke earlier. The only medication that can be taken off abruptly for seizures is Potassium Bromide. Please make the correction in the previous statement. Phenobarbitol should be tapered gradually 25% every 1 week over the course of a month to avoid having refractory seizures that will be at increased intensity. You should discuss with your vet about other anti-seizure options which include Keppra, Potassium Bromide or Zonisamide. It is not uncommon to have a seizure patient on several anti-seizure medications to help manage seizures. Thank you for noting my previous statement error and hopefully you can open up further discussion with your vet about the best course of action moving forward for your pets care.

    Vote icon

    28Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored