Red Light, Green Light: Potassium Bromide for the Treatment of Seizures Associated with Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy
Sponsored by PRN Pharmacal
Epilepsy is a common problem in companion animals, with 0.55% to 2.3% of the canine veterinary referral population being presented for seizure activity.1 Epilepsy can have a variety of underlying causes, with idiopathic epilepsy being the most common. Idiopathic epilepsy is a diagnosis of exclusion after other metabolic and neurologic causes have been ruled out. In general, initiation of an antiepileptic drug should be considered if a dog has a seizure frequency of >1 to 2 seizures in a 6-month period or >1 seizure a day from an unknown cause.2 One such drug is potassium bromide (KBr).
In 2021, KBroVet®-CA1 (potassium bromide chewable tablets), a once-daily chewable KBr tablet, was granted conditional approval under expanded authority to control seizures associated with idiopathic epilepsy.3 The availability of an FDA conditionally approved source of KBr can help veterinarians ensure maximum safety for their patients.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
KBroVet®-CA1 is conditionally approved by FDA pending a full demonstration of effectiveness under application number 141-544. See prescribing information for complete details regarding adverse events, warnings, and precautions. It is a violation of Federal Law to use this product other than as directed in the labeling. Contraindicated in dogs with a history of hypersensitivity to bromide. Not for use in cats. Not for human use. Keep out of reach of children. Contact a physician in case of accidental ingestion by humans. The most commonly reported side effects were increased appetite and thirst, increased urination, weight gain, sedation, and ataxia. Reversible neurologic signs (sedation, ataxia, weakness) were generally associated with adjunctive potassium bromide treatment or high serum bromide concentrations. Animals with kidney disease may be predisposed to bromide toxicities. The safe use of KBroVet-CA1 has not been evaluated in dogs that are intended for breeding, are pregnant or lactating, or less than 6 months of age. Use caution when changing diets, administering chloride-containing IV fluids, and administering concurrent medications. Careful monitoring is important in dogs that have a condition that may cause difficulty maintaining electrolyte balance.
