Why is my dog hyperactive on behavior medication meant to sedate her?

Question

My dog was on Epiphen not for seizures but behaviours in the beginning of taking that it made her hyperactive it settled slightly but not around food , so she's been switched to pexion and again I'm getting the same hyperactivity but worse My question is why would medication that's supposed to sedate have this reaction? Pet's info: Dog | Pug | Female | spayed | 6 years and 6 months old | 14.5 lbs

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA · Accepted Answer

You are correct that both of these medications are used to treat epilepsy in dogs. From the label of Pexion: "The pharmacological response to imepitoin (Pexion) may vary and efficacy may not be complete. Imepitoin is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to it, with severely impaired hepatic function or severe renal or cardiovascular disorders." However, I could not find information that hyperactivity was a side effect of this medication. It could be that Jasmine is feeling uninhibited on this medication and thus does not know how to control her hyperactivity. A common side effect of Epiphen (phenobarbital) is sedation, but this effect commonly wears of with continued used. I could not find information on the same effect when using Pexion. Not knowing your dog's complete medical history and particular reasons for choosing anti-epileptic medications, I cannot make specific recommendations for her. I would recommend discussing these effects with your veterinarian. You may consider a consultation with a board certified veterinary behaviorist, or medications used for anxiety instead of seizures. Common supplements used for anxiety include Zylkene and Comfort Zone Adaptil Collars or Diffuser.

Why is my dog hyperactive on behavior medication meant to sedate her?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?

My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?

Share