What are bromides?
Bromides (brand names K-BroVet®, Libromide® also known as KBr) are a group of anticonvulsants used to treat seizures in dogs, as either a primary therapy or an adjunctive therapy. The two most used bromides are potassium bromide and sodium bromide.
Some bromide use in dogs may be “off label” or “extra label”. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How are bromides given?
Bromides are given by mouth, in the form of a chewable tablet, capsule, or liquid solution.- Measure liquid doses carefully with an accurate measuring device/syringe.
- This medication should be given with food to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
- It can be mixed directly into food if the entire dose is eaten, or it can be given directly by mouth with a meal. If mixed into the food, elevate the food bowl. If a capsule is given, make sure it is completely swallowed and followed by food or water to avoid irritation in the mouth or throat.
- If gastrointestinal upset still occurs when dosed with food, try dividing the single, daily dose into several doses over the 24-hour period.
- Do not change your pet’s diet while they are on a bromide medication.
- Do not give with salty foods and do not allow your pet to drink salt water while on this drug. Changes in salt consumption (up or down) can affect the safety and efficacy of this drug.
- Do not stop this medication abruptly unless instructed by your veterinarian.
This medication can take up to a few weeks before full effects are noted, but gradual improvements are usually appreciable. Side effects can occur immediately.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
Possible side effects include:
- sedation (most common; usually resolves on its own)
- irritability
- restlessness
- mild vomiting
- decreased appetite
- constipation
- increased appetite
- increased thirst and increased urination
Serious and more severe side effects include:
- incoordination
- dazed state
- shaking
- twitching
- dilated pupils
- persistent lack of appetite
- continuous vomiting or diarrhea
- skin rashes
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
This long-acting medication may last up to 4–6 weeks and may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
This medication should NOT BE USED in pets that are allergic to it.
This medication should be USED WITH EXTREME CAUTION in cats, as it can cause serious side effects.
This medication should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets that:
- are older
- have kidney disease
- are pregnant or lactating
- have other diseases (use lower doses in these cases)
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
The following medications should be used with caution when given with bromides:
- central nervous system sedating drugs
- diuretics
- low- or high-salt diets
- drugs that lower the seizure threshold
Changes in salt consumption (up or down) can affect the safety and efficacy of this drug.
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- Blood levels of bromide will be measured regularly, more often at first, and then every 3 to 6 months once your pet is on a maintenance dose.
- Your veterinarian will monitor your pet to be sure that the medication is working.
How do I store bromides?
- Store bromides in a tight container, at room temperature.
- For compounded medications, follow the storage instructions on the label.
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.
