It is known that recurrent seizures occur when nerve cells in the brain become too excited. If the excitation spreads to other cells in the brain, all parts of the body can be stimulated and the result is a convulsion. If an underlying cause for epilepsy, such as a tumor or infection, is identified, then epilepsy is treated by removing the cause. Unfortunately, the cause is seldom identifiable and often untreatable. In these cases, the seizures are treated with drugs known as anticonvulsants.
Anticonvulsants act by preventing nerve cells in the brain from becoming too excited.
Anticonvulsive drugs can only control epilepsy, not cure it. Every pet's response to therapy will vary, and success of therapy is greatly increased by owner compliance with dosing schedules. Several drugs are used to treat epilepsy in people, but studies have shown that phenobarbital is the most likely to control epilepsy in dogs. The intent of this study is to scientifically determine if potassium bromide, also a proven anticonvulsant, will work as well as phenobarbital in controlling canine epilepsy. The health of your dog should be the primary reason for participating in this study.