(N28) The Impact of Rescue Medication in Dogs with Emergency Seizure Disorders: An Owner Perspective

Abstract:

Background: Emergency seizure disorders such as status epilepticus are unlikely to stop spontaneously, and prolonged seizures become progressively more resistant to treatment. Early administration of effective rescue medications, in particular benzodiazepines, at the seizure onset by the owners can be life-saving and brain protecting. Clinical studies evaluating the use of rescue medications in hospital environment exist, however, the owner perspective has not been assessed to date.

Hypothesis/objectives: To analyze the use of seizure rescue medication in dogs by the owner at home.

Method: Observational study based on surveys of owners of dogs suffering from seizure disorders.

Results: The questionnaire was answered by 1563 dog owners, of which 761 provided complete and accurate answers suitable for analysis. Of these, 71% administered diazepam, 19% midazolam, 6% levetiracetam, .3% lorazepam, and 4% more than one rescue or other medication(s). Overall, the owner reported success rate for intranasal midazolam (97%) was perceived better than rectal diazepam (63%). Intranasal midazolam and rectal diazepam could cease the seizures within 5 minutes in 90% and 45% of the dogs, respectively. Owners reported a compliance and comfort level of 95% for intranasal midazolam administration and 66% for rectal diazepam.

Conclusions and clinical importance: Even though rectal diazepam was the most commonly used rescue medication in this survey population, intranasal midazolam was perceived by the owners as a better option regarding success rates, time to seizure cessation and owner compliance.