What is gabapentin?
Gabapentin (brand names: Neurontin®, Aclonium®, Equipax®, Gantin®, Gabarone®, Gralise®, Neurostil®, Progresse®) is an anti-seizure and pain medication that is used with other medications to treat seizures and chronic pain, primarily nerve pain, in dogs and cats. It has also been used in cats to treat fear and anxiety associated with veterinary visits.
Its use in cats and dogs to treat seizures and pain is “off label” or “extra label”. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is gabapentin given?
- Gabapentin is administered by mouth in the form of a capsule, tablet, or compounded liquid.
- It can be given with or without food, but if your pet vomits after receiving this medication on an empty stomach, try giving future doses with food or a treat.
- The best time to give this medication is right before feeding.
- Measure liquid formations of this medication carefully.
- If using the oral liquid form made for humans, in a dog, verify that it doesn’t contain xylitol, which is toxic for dogs.
- Do not stop this medication abruptly in pets with epilepsy, as this can cause withdrawal seizures.
- When giving this medication to a cat for anxiety associated with veterinary visits, attempt to keep the cat in the calmest state possible while giving the medication and for the hour immediately following administration, as increased excitement may decrease the anti-anxiety effects of this medication.
This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, and improvement in clinical signs should follow.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Are there any potential side effects?
Gabapentin may cause the following side effects:
- sedation(sleepiness)
- incoordination
It is recommended that you gradually increase the medication dose over time to alleviate these effects. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
Gabapentin should NOT BE USED in pets that are allergic to it.
Gabapentin should be USED WITH CAUTION in pets that:
- have kidney disease
- are pregnant and/or lactating
Do not stop this medication abruptly in pets with epilepsy, as this can cause withdrawal seizures.
Some liquid oral formulations contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs, so be cautious and read the label before administering. Never give any medication to dogs that contains xylitol as an ingredient.
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
The following medications should be used with caution when given with gabapentin:
- antacids
- hydrocodone
- morphine
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
Is any monitoring needed with this medication?
- No specific monitoring is required while your pet is taking this medication.
- Your veterinarian may monitor your pet to be sure that the medication is working.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store gabapentin?
- Store capsules and tablets at room temperature, around 25°C (77°F)
- Store away from moisture.
- Follow the directions on the label for compounded liquid medications.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
