Erythema multiforme associated with zonisamide in a dog

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Anticonvulsant medications are frequently prescribed for canine epilepsy.
• Sulphonamide-based drugs are known to cause various adverse reactions in dogs.

Observation:

• A canine patient developed erythema multiforme.
• The onset of erythema multiforme was temporally associated with the administration of zonisamide, a sulphonamide-based anticonvulsant.

Findings:

• The case suggests a potential link between zonisamide administration and the development of erythema multiforme in dogs.
• This reaction mirrors adverse effects seen with other sulphonamide drugs.

Implications:

• Veterinarians should exercise caution when prescribing zonisamide to dogs with a history of hypersensitivity to sulphonamides.
• Further investigation into the safety profile of zonisamide in dogs is warranted.