(Luminal®, Solfoton® and phenobarbitone are other names for this medication.) 

Use: Phenobarbital is used to control seizures in animals with epilepsy. Because it also causes drowsiness, it has sometimes been used as a tranquilizer/sedative in animals.

Side Effects: Phenobarbital most commonly causes tiredness at the beginning of treatment. Some animals will also experience agitation and anxiety at the beginning or treatment. Many animals will eat more, drink more and urinate more when taking phenobarbital.

Precautions: Phenobarbital decreases the ability of the lungs to function properly. It should be used very carefully in animals that have lung disease or lung conditions. Dogs and cats use panting from the lungs to cool themselves, as they cannot sweat. Depressing breathing can not only cause oxygen shortage, but also can cause animals to overheat.

Directions: Dogs and cats usually receive phenobarbital orally once or twice daily. It must be given for life to control epilepsy.

Remember: Phenobarbital should be stored in a tight, light resistant, childproof container away from all children and other household pets.

If you miss a dose of this medication you should give it as soon as you remember it, but if it is within a few hours of the regularly scheduled dose, wait and give it at the regular time. Do not double a dose as this can be toxic to your pet.