Abstract: Background - In randomised, blinded studies, imepitoin had similar efficacy to reduce seizure frequency as phenobarbital but with a broader safety profile. After approximately 10 years since drug approval in Europe, the efficacy has been re-evaluated in a heterogeneous dog population.
Hypothesis/Objectives - Imepitoin is effective in reducing seizure frequency during long-term treatment in dogs with epilepsy.
Animals - Study participants were 113 dogs with epilepsy treated with imepitoin for between 3 months and 8 years.
Methods - In a questionnaire based, retrospective study, dog owners provided information on effect of treatment on seizure frequency, seizure severity (single seizures, cluster seizures, status epilepticus), side effects, and quality of life of the dogs and their owners.
Results - Seizure reduction of at least 50% was observed in 43.36% of study participants, with 25 of these dogs becoming seizure-free. 56,7% (64/113) of the dogs had no cluster seizures before or during treatment. Sixteen dogs became free of cluster seizures under therapy, twelve dogs developed cluster seizures. A similar effect was seen evaluating the occurrence of status epilepticus. Polyphagia was the most frequently observed side effect. During treatment, 46.04% of dog owners became less concerned about seizure frequency and 51.32% became less concerned about seizure severity.
Conclusions - Efficacy in seizure frequency reduction remains satisfactory during long-term treatment with imepitoin, leading to a better quality of life for dogs with epilepsy and for their owners.
