Gabapentin Drug Information for Dogs and Cats

Quick Info:

 

• Drug name: Gabapentin
• Common name: Neurontin, generics
• Drug type: Anticonvulsant, analgesic drug
• Used for: Painkiller, anxiety/fear, uncontrolled seizures
• Species: Dog + cat
• Formulation: Tablet, capsule, liquid

 

Name – Active Ingredient:

 

• Gabapentin

 

Name – Common Trade Names:

 

• Neurontin, generics

 

Species:

 

   

 

Major Indication:

 

• Pain – more effective treating long-term nerve pain than sudden short-term pain.
• Situations where fear or anxiety is anticipated.
• Aid seizure treatment when other drugs are failing to adequately control seizures.

 

Common Contraindications and Warnings:

 

• Some human preparations contain xylitol which is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
• Use with caution in cases of advanced kidney or liver disease.

 

Potential Side Effects:

 

• Sedation and wobbliness are the most common side-effects seen.
• Drooling and vomiting are seen less commonly.

 

Administration Instructions/Handling:

 

• Giving with food reduces the risk of vomiting.
• When long-term treatment is no longer needed, treatment should be stopped slowly.
• If a dose is missed, give as soon as possible and administer the next dose as due.

 

Storage:

 

• Capsules and tables should be stored at room temperature.
• Oral liquid should be kept in the fridge.

 

Speed of Action + Monitoring:

 

• When given fear or anxiety, administer 90 minutes to 3 hours before the effect is needed.
• It takes 1-2 for body levels to reach a steady state.
• When used to treat long-term pain, it can take several weeks to months for the full effect to be appreciated.
• When given to treat pain, your pet’s pain levels should be monitored to ensure the treatment given is effective.

 

REMEMBER! READ THE LABEL!

 

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