Zonisamide and Dog Seizures
When your vet mentions zonisamide, it might sound unfamiliar, but it’s actually a very commonly used medication for managing seizures in dogs. Ruby started zonisamide several years ago, and it became an important part of her daily routine.
What Is Zonisamide?
Zonisamide is an anti-seizure medication that works by helping to stabilize the brain’s electrical activity. It’s often used on its own for mild to moderate epilepsy or combined with other medications like phenobarbital or Keppra when seizures need stronger control.
Why Vets Like It
Many veterinarians choose zonisamide because it’s well-tolerated and can be easier on the liver compared to some other medications. It’s usually given once or twice a day, depending on your dog’s needs. Most dogs adjust well, and it can be a helpful option for long-term seizure management.
What to Watch For
Some dogs may experience mild side effects such as drowsiness, loss of appetite, or unsteady walking, especially in the beginning. These often improve after the first few weeks. Always check with your vet if side effects seem to persist or if seizures change in frequency or intensity.
Staying Consistent
Like all seizure medications, consistency is key. Give each dose at the same time every day and keep a simple seizure log to track patterns or changes. Over time, this helps your vet fine-tune your dog’s plan for the best results.
Learn More About Managing Seizures
If your dog was recently diagnosed with epilepsy or just started medication, my course My Dog Was Diagnosed With Epilepsy – Now What? will walk you step-by-step through what to expect, how to build routines, and how to stay calm and organized through it all.