Phenobarbital (Fidoquel) Tablets for Dogs, 16.2 mg, 32.4 mg, or 64.8 mg

Phenobarbital Tablets are a foundational veterinary anticonvulsant and central nervous system depressant formulated for oral administration in dogs to control and manage primary (idiopathic) epilepsy and secondary seizure disorders. Containing the active barbiturate compound phenobarbital, this professional-grade therapeutic preparation elevates the seizure threshold and stabilizes neuronal membranes to prevent generalized and partial seizures. Because long-term anticonvulsant therapy requires precise blood level monitoring, consistent dosing schedules, and careful clinical oversight, administration must be guided strictly by a licensed veterinarian.

What Is Phenobarbital?

Phenobarbital is a specialized veterinary neuroactive compound formulated for oral delivery under professional veterinary supervision.

Active Ingredients and Formulation

• Active Component: Phenobarbital at concentrations of 16.2 mg, 32.4 mg, or 64.8 mg per tablet (scored for convenient dose splitting). It acts as a long-acting barbiturate that enhances inhibitory GABAergic neurotransmission and suppresses glutamate-mediated excitation in the brain.

• Vehicle and Presentation: Supplied as oral tablets packaged in bottles of 100 or 1000 counts designed for precise, long-term chronic administration.

What Is It Used For?

Primary Veterinary Indications

• Idiopathic Epilepsy Management: Routinely prescribed by veterinarians as the primary, first-line anticonvulsant medication for dogs suffering from recurring epileptic seizures.

• Secondary Seizure Control: Utilized to manage seizures resulting from intracranial or extracranial disorders when directed by veterinary neurological evaluation.

Administration and Dosage Considerations

Route and Dosing

• Route of Administration: Administered orally, typically given every 12 hours consistently to maintain steady therapeutic blood serum concentrations.

• Standard Canine Dosage Reference: Typically initiated at 1 mg to 2 mg per lb (2 mg to 4 mg per kg) of body weight administered orally every 12 hours. Dosage is subsequently adjusted based on periodic serum phenobarbital concentration testing and seizure frequency logs.

• Veterinary Supervision: Abrupt discontinuation is dangerous and can trigger status epilepticus; any dosage adjustments or cessation must be managed exclusively by a veterinarian.

Important Safety Information

• Contraindications: Do not administer to dogs with severe hepatic impairment, marked respiratory depression, or known hypersensitivity to barbiturates.

• Side Effects and Precautions: Common initial side effects include transient sedation, ataxia, polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia during the first 1 to 2 weeks of therapy or following a dose increase. Long-term use requires periodic blood chemistry panels to monitor liver enzyme elevations and complete blood counts.

• Professional Guidance: Because phenobarbital induces hepatic microsomal enzymes, it can alter the metabolism and efficacy of numerous concurrent medications; use must be managed under direct veterinary clinical oversight.

Storage and Handling

• Store at controlled room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F), protected from moisture, excessive heat, and direct sunlight.

• Keep the container tightly sealed when not in use.

• Keep securely out of reach of children, unauthorized individuals, and animals at all times (accidental ingestion can cause profound, life-threatening sedation).

How is this drug administered?

Phenobarbital is administered orally in tablet form. Your veterinarian will prescribe the proper dosage according to your pet’s species and the severity of their condition.

What are the potential side effects of Phenobarbital?

Potential side effects include anxiety, exhaustion, increased thirst and appetite, increased urination, anemia, and weight gain.

What happens if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if the next dose is due soon, skip the missed dose and give the next dose according to schedule. NEVER give two doses at once. Please note that a missed dose might cause a seizure. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian.

What information should I share with my veterinarian?

Be sure to let your veterinarian know if your pet has a history with liver disease or sensitivity to anti-seizure medications.

Do I need a prescription to buy this medication?

Yes. Phenobarbital cannot be purchased without a valid prescription from a licensed veterinarian. This drug can be used as a lone therapy or in combination with other medications, but never administer Phenobarbital without specific instructions from your veterinarian.

What is the dosage of Phenobarbital for dogs?

Phenobarbital is typically initiated at 2-2.5mg per kg of the dog’s body weight, given twice daily (every 12 hours). After approximately two weeks, veterinarians measure serum drug levels and assess both seizure control and liver health to guide any dosage adjustments. Consistent timing and ongoing monitoring are key to maintaining therapeutic effectiveness and minimizing risks such as hepatotoxicity.

This is a general guideline. We recommend to always go by your veterinarians dosing recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Phenobarbital used for?

It is a professional veterinary anticonvulsant medication utilized to control and prevent epileptic seizures in dogs.

What is the active ingredient?

Each tablet contains phenobarbital (available in 16.2 mg, 32.4 mg, or 64.8 mg strengths), a long-acting barbiturate that stabilizes neuronal activity in the brain.

How is Phenobarbital administered?

It is administered orally every 12 hours on a strict schedule, with routine blood testing required to monitor therapeutic drug levels under veterinary supervision.

Order Rx Phenobarbital Tablets Online

Rx Phenobarbital (Fidoquel) Tablets for Dogs are available for order through our platform subject to veterinary prescription verification and regulatory compliance. For assistance regarding prescription submission, stock availability, or secure shipping protocols, please contact our customer support team.