Gabapentin (Rx)
Gabapentin (Rx)
Why our vets recommend it
Gabapentin is a great, fast-acting treatment for anxiety, pain, and seizures with a good safety profile.
Medication information
What is gabapentin?
What is gabapentin?
Gabapentin can be an effective medication to treat anxiety, pain, and seizures in pets. It helps keep the nervous system from overreacting by modifying the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, which carry messages between nerve cells. Because every pet will respond differently to oral behavioral medications, you may need to work with your vet to fine-tune your pet’s dosage. While gabapentin is not FDA-approved for use in cats and dogs, it’s commonly prescribed and generally well-tolerated in pets when appropriately prescribed by a veterinarian.
What does gabapentin treat?
What does gabapentin treat?
Gabapentin treats:
- Anxiety
- Pain
- Seizures
How is gabapentin given?
How is gabapentin given?
Gabapentin capsules should be given orally to pets following the dosage instructions from your veterinarian.
Who is gabapentin for?
Who is gabapentin for?
Cats and dogs
Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease as the dose may need to be adjusted. Do not use gabapentin in pregnant or nursing pets unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
What is the active ingredient of gabapentin?
What is the active ingredient of gabapentin?
Gabapentin
What are the possible side effects of gabapentin?
What are the possible side effects of gabapentin?
Side effects of gabapentin are mainly associated with sedation and loss of coordination, though vomiting and diarrhea are also sometimes seen. Some cats experience profound sedation which may last for 24 hours. If you notice any of these signs, please message our vet team for further recommendations and dose adjustments.
Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease as the dose may need to be adjusted. Do not use gabapentin in pregnant or nursing pets unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
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Safety Information
- No drug is 100% safe in all patients, but your veterinarian will discuss with you any specific concerns about using this drug in your animal.
- This drug SHOULD NOT be used in: Animals that are allergic to it or drugs like it (eg, pregabalin).
- The oral liquid manufactured for humans may contain the sweetener xylitol; xylitol is toxic to dogs and should not be used in this species.
- This drug should be used with caution in patients that have kidney disease.
- If your animal has any of these conditions, talk to your veterinarian about the potential risks versus benefits. 1
Warnings
- The oral liquid manufactured for humans may contain the sweetener xylitol; xylitol is toxic to dogs and should not be used in this species.1
Human Warnings
- Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children. In case of accidental ingestion, contact a physician immediately.
References
Seattle Animal Shelter. "Gabapentin Information Sheet." Plumb’s Veterinary Medication Guides, 2020, www.seattle.gov/documents/Departments/AnimalShelter/Gabapentin%20Info%20Sheet.pdf.