General Description: Felbamate is used as an anticonvulsant in seizuring dogs. Felbamate is usually used in combination with other drugs in those patients who respond inadequately to alternative treatments. Felbamate should not be used in patients at risk for anemias or liver disease. Felbamate is available in 400 mg and 600 mg tablets, as well as an oral suspension that is 600 mg/5 mL.
What is this drug?
A ‘third-line’ anticonvulsant
Given by mouth
Reasons for prescribing:
Used to control seizures in dogs when other drugs alone have not succeeded
This drug’s use in veterinary medicine is limited at this time. Potential risks to your pet will be weighed against the potential benefits. Your veterinarian will work with you to monitor for any side effects.
What dogs/cats should not take this medication?
Safe use in pregnant animals has not been confirmed
Use with extreme caution in pets with liver disease or blood disorders
If your pet has had an allergic reaction to felbamate or carbamates
Directions:
Read and follow the label carefully.
Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed. It is usually giventhree times a day . Seizures may reoccur if a dose is missed.
Ideally, give the medication at the same time(s) daily.
Baseline blood work to assess your pet’s health before starting this drug is recommended. Periodic blood work to monitor the drug’s effect on the body will be necessary. Dose adjustments will be made based upon the results and an assessment of how your dog is responding clinically.
It may take several days before adequate blood levels will be reached to effectively control seizures. Monitor carefully during this time.
Record the date, time, severity, length and circumstances of any seizure your pet has. Provide this information to your veterinarian in order to help him/her to best treat your pet.
Call ahead for refills.
What if a dose is missed?
If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.
What to tell/ask veterinarian before giving medication?
Talk to your veterinarian about:
When will your pet need to be rechecked
What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
What are the risks and benefits of using this drug
Tell your veterinarian about:
If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
If your pet has experienced liver or kidney disease now or ever
If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your pet’s medicines can be given together.
If your pet is pregnant or nursing or if you plan to breed your pet
Storage and Warnings:
Store in a tight, light resistant, childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.
Shake suspension well before using. Store at controlled room temperature 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). Keep container tightly closed.
Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.
Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.
Potential side effects:
Your pet will likely be tired when first prescribed felbamate. Some pets become agitated and anxious too.
Your pet may stagger, seem depressed or sedated
Your pet may experience nausea, vomiting and salivation
May cause liver disease. Liver enzymes should be monitored before and during therapy. If you notice jaundice (yellow gums, skin or eyes), let your veterinarian know.
Anemias have been reported in people receiving this medication. Watch for weakness, pale gums or increased bleeding or bruising tendencies.
If your pet experiences these symptoms, has any additional seizures or you notice anything else unusual, contact your veterinarian
Can this drug be given with other drugs?
Yes, but possible interactions may occur with phenobarbital, phenytoin and valproic acid.
If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian.
Overdosing?
Contact your veterinarian immediately if pet receives more than the prescribed amount.
What else should I know?
Notify your veterinarian if your animal’s condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.
As with all prescribed medicines, felbamate should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed. It should be given only for the condition for which it was prescribed.
