Potassium Bromide Compound

• Potassium bromide (KBr) is available by prescription only.

• Potassium bromide is an antiepileptic drug used to control seizure activity in dogs and cats.

• Potassium bromide is often prescribed in conjunction with phenobarbital if the seizures are not responsive to phenobarbital alone.

• Potassium bromide is primarily prescribed for...

• idiopathic epilepsy

• seizures

• convulsions

• Potassium bromide acts at the cellular level to decrease seizure activity and excitability by replacing chloride throughout the body.

• Unlike phenobarbital, which is processed by the liver, potassium bromide is well-absorbed orally, excreted by the kidneys, and has no effect on the liver. 

• Because it does not affect the liver, potassium bromide is the preferred treatment for seizures in animals with liver damage.

• Potassium bromide compound is available in...

• a capsule

• an oral suspension

• Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

• Do not use in pets with known hypersensitivity to potassium bromide.

• Do not use in pregnant or lactating animals.

• Use with caution in cats.

• Pets may have a less active lifestyle when taking any antiepileptic medication.

• The salt content of your pet's diet should not be drastically changed during potassium bromide treatment.

• if dietary salt intake increases, bromide levels decrease, causing seizures

• if dietary salt intake decreases, bromide levels increase, causing bromide intoxication

• Notify your veterinarian if your pet is taking any other medications, especially...

• diuretics, such as furosemide

• other sedatives

• Do not stop potassium bromide treatment suddenly, unless instructed otherwise by your veterinarian.

• Store at room temperature.

• Shake oral suspensions well before use.

• Use as directed by your veterinarian.

• Follow the instructions printed on the prescription label.

• Be sure to complete the prescription to ensure a full recovery, even if your pet seems to be improving, unless instructed otherwise by your veterinarian.

• Allow your pet access to plenty of water.

• Potassium bromide can be given with food to help prevent stomach upset.

• Do not stop potassium bromide treatment suddenly unless advised to do so by your veterinarian.

• Use of potassium bromide in cats is limited.

• In the case of a missed dose of potassium bromide, give it as soon as you remember, or wait until it is time to give the next dose. DO NOT GIVE A DOUBLE DOSE OF POTASSIUM BROMIDE.

• In the case of an overdose of potassium bromide, seek attention from your veterinarian. The following symptoms could be signs of an overdose...

• dizziness

• tremor

• heavy sedation

• Allergic reactions and serious side effects are rare, but in the case of an allergic reaction or a serious side effect you should stop potassium bromide treatment and seek veterinary attention immediately.

• Some common signs of allergic reactions or serious side effects are...

• facial swelling

• breathing difficulties

• fainting

• heavy sedation

• bromide toxicity