What is Gabapentin?

Gabapentin is a medication for dogs and cats for the treatment of seizures. It is also used to help with chronic pain. Although Gabapentin is not FDA-approved for use in veterinary medicine, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to prescribe this medication. Gabapentin requires a prescription from your veterinarian, and is sold per capsule.

For:

Dogs and Cats

Benefits:

• Treats seizures
• Helps manage chronic pain often associated with cancer or arthritis

How it Works:

Gabapentin stabilizes electrical activity in the brain which prevents seizures caused by excessive electrical activity. Gabapentin mimics the activity of GABA (a neurotransmitter) which helps to calm the nerve activity in the brain.

Cautions:

Unless the benefits outweigh the risk do not use Gabapentin in pregnant or nursing animals.

Brand Name:

Gabapentin

Generic Name:

Gabapentin

What is the most important information I should know about gabapentin:

Gabapentin is a prescription medication not FDA approved for veterinary use; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to use this medication in dogs and cats. Gabapentin is available as 100 mg and 300 mg capsules. The usual dose to treat seizures in dogs is 4.5 to 13.5 mg per lb every 8 to 12 hours. For cats, the usual dose to treat seizures is 2.3 mg per lb 3 times a day. For dogs and cats as an aid in chronic pain treatment or cancer pain, the usual dose is 1.4 mg per lb once a day.

What is Gabapentin:

Gabapentin is used as an anticonvulsant. It is also used to treat chronic pain. Gabapentin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving gabapentin to my pet:

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease. The dose of gabapentin may need to be adjusted. Unless the benefit outweighs the risks do not use gabapentin in pregnant or nursing animals.

How should this medication be given:

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Do not give antacids within 2 hours of giving gabapentin. Antacids can affect gabapentin blood levels. Drug interactions may occur when giving any narcotics such as hydrocodone or morphine Do not suddenly stop the use of gabapentin. Store gabapentin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember during the same day. However, if you don't remember until the next day, skip the dose you missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose the pet:

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of gabapentin overdose include reduced activity, excessive sleepiness, loss of balance, and depression

What should I avoid while giving Gabapentin to my pet:

Gabapentin should not be used in animals allergic to it. Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals. Use with caution in animals with kidney disease. Do not give antacids within 2 hours of giving gabapentin. Consult your veterinarian before giving any narcotic such as hydrocodone or morphine since drug interactions can occur.

What are the possible side effects of Gabapentin:

For dogs and cats, if any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving gabapentin and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or face; hives). Side effects that can occur in dogs and cats may include drowsiness, loss of balance, swelling of the limbs, and vomiting or diarrhea. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.

What other drugs will affect Gabapentin:

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given antacids or narcotics for pain. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with gabapentin. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines including vitamins, and supplements.

Where can I get more information:

Your pharmacist has additional information about Gabapentin written for health professionals that you may read. Call your veterinarian for medical advice about any side effects to your pet. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.