Felbamate

What is felbamate?

Felbamate is an anticonvulsant used to treat seizure disorders in dogs. It may be used when initial anticonvulsants are not effective or stop working.

It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet felbamate?

Felbamate comes in tablet and liquid suspension forms. 

• All forms are given orally (by mouth).
• This medication may be given with or without food. If your animal vomits or acts sick after receiving the drug on an empty stomach, try giving the next dose with food or a small treat. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.  
• Liquid medications must be measured carefully. Contact your veterinarian if you have trouble measuring or giving the medication.
• Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.

This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time as prescribed by your veterinarian for the next dose. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from felbamate?

Felbamate may cause the following side effects:

• shaking, tremors
• dry eye
• drooling
• restlessness, agitation
• increase in liver enzymes

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

• an allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. Aplastic anemia has been reported in humans on this medication but has not currently been reported as a side effect in dogs. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. 

This medication is short-acting, meaning that effects will last less than 24 hours, though effects may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

Felbamate should NOT BE USED in animals who are allergic to any component of the medication or are allergic to carbamates

Felbamate should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets who:

• have liver disease
• have blood dyscrasias (blood cell disorders)
• are pregnant or nursing

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with felbamate, including: 

• clopidogrel
• phenobarbital
• QTc prolonging drugs (e.g., amiodarone, cisapride, sotalol)
• valproate

It is important to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements or herbal therapies) that your dog is taking before starting any treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will assess baseline bloodwork before starting this medication and monitor bloodwork throughout treatment.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects. 
• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store felbamate?

• Store in a tight container at room temperature of 20°C-25°C (68°F-77°F).
• Shake liquid medications before use.
• Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.