ExoticRx · exoticrx.com/drugs/phenobarbital
Phenobarbital
Luminal, Solfoton
Drug Class
Routes
Indications
Mechanism of Action
Enhances GABA-A receptor activity by prolonging chloride channel opening. Also blocks AMPA/glutamate receptors. Raises seizure threshold.
Side effects & warnings
First-line anticonvulsant for dogs. Hepatotoxicity with chronic use (monitor liver enzymes and serum levels). PU/PD, polyphagia, sedation (often transient). Hepatic enzyme inducer (many drug interactions). DEA controlled.
Species with Phenobarbital dosing data (4 dose rules)
Species references:All Cat (Domestic) drugsAll Dog (Domestic) drugsAll Rabbit (Domestic) drugs
Controlled Substance
Controlled substance
Evidence levels across 4 dose rules
Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.
Backed by 2 published sources
- · Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed
- · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Sample dosing (2 of 4 cited rules)
A dog/cat sample is shown here. Cited dosing for all 3 species — reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine — is free on the per-species pages above. Pro adds the weight-based calculator for every species.
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View PlansArticles mentioning Phenobarbital
More Anticonvulsant drugs
Source citations and evidence levels available on the live page. Reference only — verify against current literature before clinical use.