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My dog has epilepsy. When can I reduce phenobarbital or check levels?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Siberian Husky | Male | unneutered | 11 months and 26 days old | 48 lbs

hello,Max has epilepsy. He had a seizure when he got 6 months old,since the he is taking 25 mlg phenobarbital every morning and every night. He hasn't had any seizures or signs of epilepsy what so ever. My question is when would be possible to reduce the pills and is there any kind of test to do to him to see if these pills are harming him and what is it called? Thank u

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on November 3rd, 2017

Hi there and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Yes, there is a blood test to check Max's level of phenobarbital. Often times, the phenobarbital level test does include kidney and liver values as well. Every veterinary hospital is going to have a slightly different name for the test, but it is typically called a phenobarbital monitoring panel. Unfortunately, I cannot legally advise on dosing of medication over the internet. All dosage changes to medications should be done with your primary care veterinarian. I hope this helps and best wishes to you and Max.

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