Buy Libromide | Libromide 325mg capsules | Libromide Side Effects

How does Libromide work? What is the Libromide dose rate?

Libromide contains potassium bromide, and it needs to be given for a long period to allow the correct levels of bromide ions to gradually build up in the blood stream.  The bromide ions act on nerve cells to inhibit them from discharging. (Bromide acts by passing through the chloride channels and hyperpolarizing the nerve cells.) It can take three or four months for enough bromide to build up in the body to be fully effective. Convulsions are then controlled more effectively, and the dose of phenobarbitone can often be reduced, or possibly gradually stopped completely.  Sometimes it is possible to give larger loading doses to build up levels more quickly, but this can irritate the stomach lining and cause vomiting. Libromide is best given twice daily to reduce the chances of stomach irritation. However the timing is not critical, and even missing some doses completely will have very little effect. Usually blood tests are needed to monitor if the correct amount has been given. Different dogs will need different dose rates in order to achieve therapeutic blood levels. The amount of common salt (sodium chloride) in a dog's diet will influence the effect of Libromide medication, so ideally the dog's diet is kept consistent during treatment. The average dog will take 30mg of Libromide per kg bodyweight per day to achieve the correct blood levels of 800 to 1500 µg Br/ml.

What are the Libromide side effects?

Side effects can be seen in dogs which are unusually sensitive to potassium bromide, or if an overdose is given. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, weak or inordinate hind legs and excessive thirst. Overdose is more likely to be seen in dogs with reduced kidney function, or if the salt content of the diet is reduced. Occasionally skin irritation is seen. (This can be seen in some people after handling potassium bromide for a while, so skin contact should be avoided. Always wash your hands after handling Libromide. The product can be particularly irritating to the eyes and it should be washed away with lots of cold water if contact occurs.)

Where can I buy Libromide?

Until recently, potassium bromide was sometimes sold unlicensed and often without prescription. Now that Libromide has been licensed for use in dogs and shown to be safe and effective, this is the product which should be used. It can be purchased from your local vet, or you can ask your vet for a written prescription and send this to VioVet.co.uk. You can then place your order online and buy Libromide at a much lower cost.