Imepitoin (Pexion) is a new anti-epileptic drug for use in dogs.
Research has shown its safety and efficacy for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. Pexion can only be administered by mouth (tablets). Pexion is then absorbed and passes to the brain where it binds to specific neuro-receptors in the brain and this binding inhibits the excessive electrical activity in the brain that leads to seizure activity. Imepitoin helps in controlling idiopathic epilepsy by reducing the frequency and severity of seizures. We consider the drug is effective if seizure frequency reduces by half.
Why has my pet been prescribed Pexion tablets?
Pexion is usually prescribed for dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy that do not have cluster seizures (2 or more seizures in 24 hours) and have a relatively low seizure frequency. It can also be used along with other anti-epileptic drugs to improve control of seizures in epilepsy.
How frequently will my pet need to take Pexion?
Pexion is given every 12 hours and tablets should be given at the same times every day. If a dose is delayed, give it as soon as possible and continue with the next tablet at the usual time.
Pexion can be given with food. It can be given generally with other anti-epileptic medications but check with your veterinary clinician about this before proceeding.
What is the dose of Pexion my pet will need?
Your veterinary surgeon will advise you on the initial dose of Pexion required to treat your pet; initial doses go from 10 to 20 mg per kilogram. It is likely that the dose will be increased to 30mg per kilogram if seizures are not controlled at lower doses. Always follow your vet’s advice when changing doses.
Will my pet require blood tests during treatment?
Pexion is very safe so blood tests are not required routinely.
What are the advantages of Pexion vs other anti-epileptic drugs?
Pexion starts to be effective quicker than other drugs (within 3 days). Pexion is very safe and it has very few and mild side effects, meaning it is very well-tolerated by dogs and owners.
Pexion comes in 100mg and 400mg tablets that can be split to suit the dose required.
What are the side effects of Pexion?
The most common side effects of Pexion are increased thirst (polydipsia) and urination (polyuria), increased hunger, weight gain and sedation. These side effects are uncommon, mild and well-tolerated.
Are there alternative treatments to Pexion?
Alternatives to Pexion can be considered if the response to treatment is inadequate or if your pet develops cluster seizures. Your veterinarian or neurologist will discuss alternative treatments with you.
If my pet is taking other medication, could Pexion have an adverse effect?
Generally, Pexion can be taken along with your pet’s other medications. It is however best to check with your veterinarian or neurologist.
Can I continue to vaccinate my pet if Pexion have been prescribed?
Most vaccines are safe to give and we advise you to continue with your regular vaccination plan while your dog is on Pexion.
My dog has been on Pexion for more than 2 weeks, but the seizures have not reduced. What should I do?
The first step would be to increase the dose of Pexion. Your vet will advise on the new dose to give.
If this measure is not enough, a ‘second line’ anti-epileptic drug can be added, or Pexion can be replaced by a different anti-epileptic drug. Most dogs will respond to one single medicine or the combination of two anti-epileptic drugs.
Remember to keep all medications out of the reach of children and use gloves when handling tablets. If you have doubts please always check with a veterinary surgeon.
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