My dog takes Gardenal for seizures. Is incontinence a side effect?

Question

What r side effects of gardenal 30mg in dogs twice daily?my dog is 9 n has been prescribed gardenal 30mg twice daily.is urinating while sleeping normal after gardenal? she's also having heart issues n is 11kg wt.shes vomiting also n has her liver enzyme ALT HIGH 108.what dos n don'ts r to b done with this medicine? precautions?will my dog be seizure free ever?till how much time this has to b continued?how it affects ENDOCRINE SYSTEM N BONE MARROW N LIVER, KIDNEY,HEART?had 2 seizures generalised. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

Lauren Jones VMD · Accepted Answer

I just answered your other question (https://www.petcoach.co/question/?id=814394). I've reiterated here for reference. I understand how frightening it can be when seizures occur. Seizures can be caused by a variety of conditions, such as epilepsy, toxin exposure, portosystemic liver shunts, or brain tumors, among others. While most seizures are treated with medications, the precise treatment is depends on the cause of the seizures. Gardenal (also known by the generic name phenobarbital) is a very common medication used to manage seizures in dogs. When used long term (as is often the case), it can cause elevation in the liver enzymes. It's important to routinely monitor full blood chemistry panels and phenobarbital levels in the blood while using this medication. I am concerned about Chhutki's very low sodium levels. Looking at the low ratio of her sodium and potassium levels, it's possible that she could have Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism). Very low sodium levels can cause neurologic issues, which could also be the cause of her seizures. At this point, a balanced commercial dog food (such as Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet or Purina ProPlan) is her best dietary option. Yogurt, table foods or over the counter supplements are not going to help with this issue. Chhutki really needs to be further evaluated by her vet to get to the bottom of this issue. Further diagnostic tests, such as an ACTH Stim, bile acid testing and an MRI would be helpful. Your vet may also need to hospitalize her for fluid therapy to slowly increase her sodium level to see if the seizures improve. I hope that she feels better soon!

My dog takes Gardenal for seizures. Is incontinence a side effect?

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