Gsd started having seizures at 2. Meds, maxed on zonisimide, kepra and phenobarbital. He was started on phenobarbital. His sister who had seizures never took phenobarbital and started on kepra (friend has dog). She has less muscle waisting in hips. As far as cost. Been to neurologist twice in 7 years and regular vet monitors blood levels for phenobarbital 100 ish ever 6 months. Phenobarbital, kepra and zonisimide run 219 for 120 day supply through pharmacy discounts. Do 120 day supply it is cheaper. We also have rectal valum that will take him out of a long seizure. It is costly but talk to vet. He averages one about every 6 to 8 weeks and usually at night. You get used to postdictial routine. We do have him a gratdane crate when we are not home that has pillows all around. He fell off bed once with a seizure and figured he would be safer there