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$19.99 | $24.99
Product title
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$19.99 | $24.99
Product title
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$19.99 | $24.99
Product title
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$19.99 | $24.99
Prescription Anticonvulsant Capsules for Seizure Control in Dogs and Cats
Product Description
Zonisamide 25 mg capsules are prescribed off-label for dogs and cats to help control epilepsy and bring down seizure frequency. It works by settling abnormal electrical activity in the brain and can be used on its own or combined with other seizure medications. Most pets tolerate it well, and it has become a reliable choice for managing neurological conditions.
Benefits
- Seizure Frequency Reduction: Helps reduce how often seizures occur in dogs and cats diagnosed with epilepsy or seizure disorders.
- Flexible Treatment Option: Can be used on its own or added to an existing seizure medication regimen for better overall control.
- Suitable for Dogs and Cats: Commonly prescribed off-label for both dogs and cats dealing with epilepsy or hard-to-control seizures.
- Well-Tolerated Profile: Generally considered to have fewer side effects compared to some other anticonvulsant options available for pets.
- Refractory Seizure Support: Especially helpful for pets whose seizures have not responded well enough to other medications alone.
Ingredients
Active Ingredients
Zonisamide 25 mg
How to Use
Zonisamide is a prescription-only medication. A valid veterinarian prescription is required to purchase this product.
Please follow your veterinarian's specific instructions for the dosage and administration of this medication for your pet.
Disclaimer: Dosage and administration of this medication must be determined by a licensed veterinarian. Always consult your veterinarian before administering or adjusting any prescription medication for your pet.
If your pet finds it difficult to swallow capsules, tucking the capsule inside a pill pocket or soft pill wrap treat can make the whole experience much easier and less stressful for both of you. It is a simple trick that many pet parents find really helpful at medication time. Shop Pill Pockets for Dogs | Shop Pill Pockets for Cats
Additional Information
Precautions
- Avoid in Allergic Pets: Avoid use in pets with a known allergy or sensitivity to zonisamide or sulfonamide-based drugs.
- Not for Liver Disease: Zonisamide should not be used in pets that have been diagnosed with liver disease or dysfunction.
- Avoid in Breeding or Pregnant Pets: This medication should not be given to breeding or pregnant animals due to potential risk of birth defects.
- Caution in Nursing Pets: Use with caution in nursing animals, as it is currently unknown whether zonisamide passes into maternal milk.
- Do Not Stop Suddenly: Never discontinue this medication abruptly, as doing so may trigger a seizure in your pet.
- Drug Interactions: Always inform your veterinarian about all medications, supplements, and vitamins your pet is currently taking before starting zonisamide.
- Handle with Gloves: Zonisamide is considered a hazardous drug; wear gloves when handling and wash hands thoroughly afterward.
Possible Side Effects
- Sedation or Drowsiness: Sleepiness is the most commonly reported side effect, particularly during the early stages of treatment.
- Loss of Appetite: Some pets may show reduced interest in food while on this medication; monitor and inform your vet if it persists.
- Incoordination: Difficulty walking or an unsteady gait can occur in some dogs and cats taking zonisamide.
- Vomiting or Nausea: Gastrointestinal upset including vomiting may occur; giving the medication with food can help reduce this.
- Liver Effects (Rare): In rare cases, liver-related side effects may develop; contact your vet immediately if your pet develops yellowing of the skin or eyes.
- Metabolic Acidosis (Rare): This medication can occasionally increase the level of acid in the blood, which may affect bone health or kidney function if left untreated.
Storage Information
- Room Temperature Storage: Store capsules at around 25°C (77°F); brief exposure between 15°C (59°F) and 30°C (86°F) is acceptable.
- Protect from Light and Moisture: Keep capsules in a dry place, away from direct light, to maintain the medication's effectiveness.
- Keep Out of Reach: Tuck this medication away somewhere children and other pets cannot get to it.
NOTE: For generic medications, the product image shown may not reflect the actual item received. Generic medications can vary in size, color, and shape between orders depending on the manufacturer. Additionally, your medication may arrive packaged in a HardyPaw Pharmacy vial.
Shipping & Return
We offer ground, express, and priority delivery; see our shipping policy for details.
For return instructions or product concerns, please refer to our detailed refund policy.
Prescription items are NON-RETURNABLE and NON-REFUNDABLE.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is zonisamide used for in dogs and cats?
Ans: Zonisamide is a prescription anticonvulsant medication used off-label in dogs and cats to help manage epilepsy and control seizures. It may be prescribed on its own or combined with other anti-seizure medications when seizures are difficult to control.
Q2: Is zonisamide safe for cats with seizures?
Ans: Yes, zonisamide can be prescribed for cats with seizures or idiopathic epilepsy. However, the medication stays active longer in cats than in dogs, so side effects may last up to 48 hours. Always follow your veterinarian's guidance closely when using it in cats.
Q3: What are the most common side effects of zonisamide in pets?
Ans: The most common side effect is drowsiness or sedation, particularly early in treatment. Other possible effects include loss of appetite, incoordination, and vomiting. Reach out to your vet if any of these signs are severe or do not settle on their own.
Q4: Can zonisamide be given alongside phenobarbital for dogs?
Ans: Yes, but when used together, zonisamide is cleared from the body more quickly, which may require dose adjustments. This interaction can last up to 10 weeks after phenobarbital is discontinued, so close veterinary monitoring is important throughout.
Q5: Can zonisamide cause liver damage in dogs?
Ans: Liver disease is a rare but serious side effect of zonisamide. If your dog stops eating, becomes unusually lethargic, or develops yellowing of the skin, gums, or eyes, contact your veterinarian immediately as these may be signs of liver-related complications.
Clinical Research
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/020789s034lbl.pdf