Levetiracetam, commonly known by its brand name Keppra, is a medication that has gained popularity in veterinary medicine for managing seizures in dogs. 

If your dog has been diagnosed with epilepsy or another seizure disorder, your veterinarian may prescribe Levetiracetam as part of the treatment plan. Ensuring you understand the proper dose and side effects is important for all pet owners. 

In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about Levetiracetam for dogs dosage, including dosage guidelines, side effects, and how it compares to other anticonvulsants like Phenobarbital.

What is Levetiracetam for Dogs Dosage?

Levetiracetam is an anticonvulsant medication initially developed for humans but is now widely used in veterinary medicine. Levetiracetam does not require liver metabolism, unlike other anticonvulsants, making it a safer option for big, curly-haired, fluffy dogs with liver conditions.

Levetiracetam for Dogs Dosage: General Guidelines

The dosage of levetiracetam for dogs varies depending on factors such as weight, severity of the condition, and the individual dog’s response to the medication. 

For example, the Levetiracetam 500 mg dosage for dogs is often used as a reference point in dosage charts. For a dog weighing approximately 25 kg (55 lbs), a typical dosage would be 500 mg three times daily. It’s essential to follow your veterinarian’s instructions precisely and to use a Levetiracetam dosage for dogs by weight chart to ensure the correct dose.

Levetiracetam for Dogs Dosage by Weight Chart

To help pet owners understand the correct dosage, here is a simple chart that can guide you:

It’s important to note that this chart is a general guideline, and the final dosage should always be determined by your veterinarian. 

Additionally, higher doses may be required for more severe cases, and some dogs may need to be titrated up to the max Keppra dose for dogs by weight to achieve optimal control of seizures.

Also, read about the dosage of aspirin in pups and whether drugs in large amounts are crucial or not.

Levetiracetam for Dogs Dosage and Side Effects

Like any medication, levetiracetam can have side effects on your chunky dog, although it is generally well-tolerated in dogs. The most common side effects include:

• Drowsiness
• Loss of appetite
• Mild digestive upset (vomiting or diarrhea)
• Changes in behavior (e.g., restlessness or agitation)

These side effects are usually mild and often resolve on their own as your dog’s body adjusts to the medication. However, if you notice any severe side effects or if the symptoms persist, it is essential to contact your veterinarian immediately.

One of the questions many pet owners ask is, “Levetiracetam dosage for dogs and side effects: how long do they last?” If side effects persist longer than a week or two, your vet may adjust the dosage or consider alternative treatments.

Keppra Dosage for Dogs by Weight Per Kg

For precision, many veterinarians prefer to calculate the Keppra dosage based on weight per kg. For instance, if your dog weighs 10 kg, the starting dose would be 200 mg three times a day. Depending on the dog’s response, the dosage may be increased to 30 mg per kg or more.

Levetiracetam vs. Phenobarbital: Which is Better?

Levetiracetam is often compared to another common anticonvulsant, phenobarbital. While both are effective in controlling seizures, there are key differences. Phenobarbital requires liver metabolism and can have more significant long-term side effects, such as liver damage and increased appetite leading to weight gain. 

The phenobarbital dosage for dogs by weight is typically lower in milligrams than levetiracetam, but it may require frequent blood tests to monitor liver function.

Levetiracetam, on the other hand, is considered safer for long-term use, particularly in big dogs with liver issues. It does not require regular blood tests and is less likely to cause significant weight gain. 

However, it may need to be administered more frequently than phenobarbital, which is often given twice daily.

Conclusion: Levetiracetam for Dogs Dosage

Levetiracetam is a valuable medication for managing seizures in dogs, offering a relatively safe and effective option for long-term treatment. 

Understanding the correct Levetiracetam dosage for dogs dosage by weight, being aware of potential side effects, and working closely with your veterinarian are essential steps in ensuring the best possible outcome for your furry friend.