What is Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs?

Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) are indicated in dogs 6 months of age and older, for the control of seizures associated with idiopathic epilepsy in dogs. It can be used as a lone therapy or along with other drugs to decrease the frequency and severity of the pet's seizures. This medication is also used for a short time (usually no more than 2 weeks) to help the pet to be calm and/or to sleep during periods of anxiety. 

Suitable For:

• Dogs, 6 mionths of age and older.

Benefits:

• Effective Seizure Control: Helps to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures in dogs.
• Long-Term Management: Provides a reliable treatment option for the ongoing management of canine epilepsy and other seizure disorders.
• Improved Quality of Life: By controlling seizures, it helps dogs lead more stable, comfortable, and active lives.
• Reduces Risk of Injury: Minimizes the potential for injury that can occur during uncontrolled seizure episodes.
• Veterinarian-Prescribed: Ensures appropriate diagnosis, dosage, and monitoring for safe and effective therapy.

How do Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs work?

Fidoquel™ CA-1 effectively helps manage seizures in dogs by influencing the central nervous system. Its primary action involves enhancing the effects of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which is the brain's main inhibitory neurotransmitter. By boosting GABA's calming influence, phenobarbital helps to reduce and stabilize the excessive electrical activity in the brain that triggers seizures. This mechanism works to raise the brain's seizure threshold, making it less likely for abnormal neuronal firing to occur, thus helping your dog maintain better control over seizure episodes.

Brand Name

Fidoquel™ CA-1

Generic Name:

Phenobarbital

What is the most important thing I should know about Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs?

Fidoquel™ CA-1 contains phenobarbital, a Schedule IV controlled substance with potential for misuse, abuse, and addiction as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Intentional non-therapeutic use, often involving higher doses or combination with other substances  can lead to serious adverse outcomes, including respiratory depression, overdose, or death. Continued use may lead to physical dependence, with abrupt discontinuation or rapid dose reduction risking severe, life-threatening withdrawal reactions, including seizures. Tolerance can also develop, narrowing the margin between effective and fatal doses. Prescribers should carefully consider these risks of misuse or abuse. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the correct dosage for your pet and follow the instructions exactly when administering Phenobarbital to your pet.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs to my pet?

Before giving Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) to your dog, it's crucial to have a comprehensive discussion with your veterinarian. You should inform them about your pet's complete medical history, including but not limited to:

• Any known allergies, particularly to phenobarbital or other medications.
• Liver disease (including previous or current issues).
• Kidney disease (including infection or inflammation).
• Heart disease or any related conditions.
• Lung disease or severe breathing problems/respiratory abnormalities.
• Anemia (low red blood cell count).
• Adrenal gland problems (such as Addison's disease).
• Hypovolemia or any condition causing high fluid loss, like severe dehydration.
• If your pet is pregnant, breeding, or nursing.
• All other medications, supplements, vitamins, or herbal remedies your pet is currently receiving, or has recently received.

How should Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs be given?

Give Phenobarbital exactly as it is prescribed by your veterinarian for your pet. For cats, the usual dose ranges from 7.5-15 mg given by mouth every 12 hours. For dogs, the usual dose is about 1-2 mg per pound given by mouth every 12 hours. Do not stop giving suddenly. Sudden withdrawal may cause your pet to have a seizure.

What are the potential side effects of Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs?

Side effects and common general adverse reactions seen are ataxia, lethargy, increased water consumption, increased appetite, vomiting, increased urination, hyperactivity, diarrhea, and weight gain. Hematologic adverse reactions: Increased serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), increased serum alanine transferase (ALT), increased serum gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), decreased serum total and free thyroxine (T4) concentrations, immune-mediated anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. Rarely, idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity may also occur. Nervous system: Agitation, somnolence, confusion, CNS depression, hyperkinesia, ataxia, nervousness, nightmares, psychiatric disturbance, thinking abnormality, insomnia, anxiety, hallucinations, dizziness. Dermatologic: Exfoliative dermatitis and toxic epidermis necrolysis. of Phenobarbital may include anxiety, lethargy, sedation, increase in water intake, increase in appetite, increase in urination, anemia, and weight gain. Usually if a pet is going to experience side effects it happens in the first few weeks of starting the medication or when the dosage is increased.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs?

Give the missed dose as soon as possible. If the next dose is due soon, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Don't give your pet two doses at once. Missed doses may cause your pet to have a seizure.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs?

Immediate medical attention is required if an overdose is suspected. An overdose on Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) can be fatal. Signs of an overdose may include loss of appetite, vomiting, trouble breathing, jaundice, sedation, and coma. Call a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) if needed. No action shall be taken involving any personal risk or without suitable training. Do NOT induce vomiting due to potential CNS depression.

What should I avoid while giving Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs to my pet?

Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) should not be used in dogs with a history of hypersensitivity to Phenobarbital. Not for use in humans or cats. Do not use Fidoquel™ CA-1 in pregnant or lactating dogs since it may produce congenital malformations in the developing fetus. Phenobarbital may be present and accumulate in the milk of lactating dogs. Phenobarbital CIV may interact with other drugs so consult with a veterinarian if the pet is on other medication

What other drugs will affect Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs?

Phenobarbital can interact with a wide range of other medications, affecting either its own effectiveness or the effectiveness of the other drugs. It's vital to inform your veterinarian about all medications your pet is taking. Some classes of drugs that can interact include: anticoagulants, antihistamines, beta-adrenergic blocker, Diazepam (and other central nervous system depressants), corticosteroids, opiate agonists, Phenothiazine, Aminophylline, Chloramphenicol, Doxycycline, Furosemide, Griseofulvin, Metronidazole, Phenytoin sodium, Quinidine, Rifampin, Theophylline, and Valproic acid.

Cautions:

Not for use in cats.Do not use in pregnant or lactating dogs. Based on data from laboratory animals, administration of FIDOQUEL™-CA1 to pregnant dogs may produce congenital malformations in the developing fetus. Phenobarbital may be present and accumulate in the milk of lactating dogs. Keep FIDOQUEL™-CA1 in a secure location out of the reach of dogs, cats, or other animals to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose.

Fidoquel™ CA-1 (Phenobarbital Tablets) for Dogs contains phenobarbital, which may be habit forming. Tolerance and psychological and physical dependence may occur with continued use. Use with caution when giving Phenobarbital to pets with Addison's Disease, kidney disease, liver disease, respiratory abnormalities, or anemia. Phenobarbital may interact with other drugs so it's best to consult with your veterinarian if your pet is on other medication. After prolonged use, Phenobarbital may cause significant liver impairment.

Storage:

Store in original container, at a locked Controlled Room or in a locked cabinet according to federal and state controlled substance requirements and guidelines. Temperature at 25°C (77°F), excursions are permitted to 15° - 30°C (59° - 86°F). Protect from Moisture and Light. Keep container tightly closed and out of reach of children. For more information follow directions in product packaging.