FDA Grants Full Approval to KBro Vet CA-1 Chewable for Dogs with Idiopathic Epilepsy

Big news in veterinary neurology: the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted full approval to PRN Pharmacal’s KBroVet® (potassium bromide chewable tablets) for the control of seizures in dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. This makes it the first FDA approved medication for idiopathic epilepsy in dogs.

The approval, announced by the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM), marks an important milestone for veterinarians and pet owners managing this challenging and often lifelong condition.

A Long-Used Therapy, Now Fully Approved

Potassium bromide has been used for decades as an anticonvulsant in dogs, particularly as an adjunct therapy for patients who do not achieve adequate seizure control with phenobarbital alone. However, KBroVet is now the first potassium bromide product to receive full FDA approval specifically for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy.

Idiopathic epilepsy is a seizure disorder with no identifiable underlying cause and is one of the most common chronic neurologic conditions seen in dogs. Managing it often requires long-term medication, close monitoring, and strong collaboration between veterinarians and pet owners.

What Is KBroVet?

KBroVet is a once-daily, orally administered chewable tablet formulated to help control seizures associated with idiopathic epilepsy. Because diagnosis and treatment require professional veterinary expertise—including monitoring drug levels and managing potential adverse effects, the medication is available by prescription only.

The chewable formulation may also help improve compliance, especially for dogs that are difficult to medicate.

Monitoring Is Critical

The FDA emphasizes that dogs receiving potassium bromide must be carefully monitored to reduce the risk of bromide intoxication, a condition that occurs when bromide levels become too high and overwhelm the nervous system.

Clinical signs of severe bromide toxicity may include:

• Depression or lethargy

• Behavioral changes

• Poor coordination (ataxia)

• Weakness or partial loss of voluntary movement in the hind limbs

• Dilated pupils

• Stupor or coma in extreme cases

Because potassium bromide has a long half-life, toxicity can develop gradually, making routine monitoring and client education essential.

Diet Changes Matter More Than You Think

One of the most important (and often overlooked) aspects of potassium bromide therapy is diet consistency. Chloride levels in the diet directly affect bromide concentrations in the body. Abrupt diet changes, such as switching foods, adding treats, or changing sodium content, can either:

• Reduce seizure control, or

• Increase the risk of toxicity

Pet owners should always consult their veterinarian before making any dietary changes for dogs receiving potassium bromide.

A Win for Veterinary Medicine

The FDA’s full approval of KBroVet reinforces the importance of evidence-based therapies in veterinary medicine and provides clinicians with an FDA-approved option for long-term seizure management in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy.

For pet owners, the approval underscores the need for partnership with their veterinarian—epilepsy management isn’t just about giving a pill, but about ongoing observation, communication, and care.

As research and pharmaceutical development in veterinary neurology continue to advance, approvals like this one represent meaningful progress for dogs living with epilepsy and the people who love them.