Gabapentin is commonly prescribed for dogs with chronic pain from conditions like osteoarthritis, spondylosis, intervertebral disc disease, and many more. It’s particularly effective when used in combination with other pain-relievers, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like meloxicam, firocoxib, and carprofen. When your dog is suffering from pain, whether due to arthritis, surgery, or injury, you’ll likely hear about medications like Carprofen and Gabapentin. Both drugs are widely prescribed by veterinarians, but they work in different ways and are suited for different types of pain. Understanding the key differences between Carprofen and Gabapentin can help you make informed decisions about managing Dr. Shelby Loos discusses gabapentin for dogs, including what it’s used for, the gabapentin dosage for dogs, and potential side effects. Gabapentin is commonly prescribed to dogs for pain management, particularly for conditions like arthritis, neuropathic pain, or to control seizures. While it’s an effective treatment for many dogs, it’s essential to understand the potential side effects that may occur, especially with long-term use. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common side effects, how to manage them, and what Gabapentin for dogs is commonly prescribed for pain, anxiety, or seizures. It's generally safe, but there are some known side effects to be aware of. Gabapentin: q8h to q12h PO (q8h is generally most recommended based on pharmacokinetics data). Starting dose is 10 mg/kg, potentially up to 40 mg/kg. 11,12 Gabapentin undergoes more hepatic than renal clearance in dogs compared to cats; thus, the dose reduction recommended for cats with renal disease is not generally necessary in dogs. ETA: My dog Millie takes Gabapentin and Trazadone prior to vet visits as she gets super squirrelly and hard to control. It just makes her sleepy. No negative side effects aside from that. It's a pretty common medicine. My last dog was on Gabapentin during her final years due to pain from cancer and she tolerated it very well. Use of gabapentin for dogs is not FDA-approved but vets still frequently prescribe it to treat pain including pain from intervertebral disc disease, as well as other conditions like anxiety, idiopathic epilepsy and seizures in dogs. My dog (29kg) is on 300mg of gabapentin 3 times a day and has no side effects. He has alot of meds mind (10 tablets a day I think) . He's not doing so well and he can't take Nsaids due to gastro issues. Gabapentin dosage in dogs varies depending on the specific condition being treated. Anticonvulsant: Every eight hours, give your dog 4.5 to 9 mg per pound of weight. Neuropathy: Initially, administer 2.3 to 6.8 mg per pound every 12 hours. What Is Gabapentin Used for Dogs and Cats? Gabapentin is a prescription medication commonly prescribed by vets to help treat pain, seizures, and anxiety in dogs and cats. Gabapentin has also been shown to help reduce stress associated with visits to the veterinarian or the groomer. Gabapentin may cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and dizziness. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and seek medical attention if experiencing serious side effects or changes in mood or behavior. Gabapentin is prescribed by healthcare professionals and should only be taken under medical supervision. Dr Edward Bassingthwaighte BVSc(Hons) is a holistic vet who helps people keep their animals well naturally all over the world. He is the founder of the Whole Energy Body Balance method, a healing bodywork modality for pets, people and trauma that can help with silent pain, anxiety, trauma and over-arousal problems. Dogs involved in this study received a higher dose of gabapentin, between 35 and 50 mg/kg per day, for four months. Another study (done on mice) showed that gabapentin reduced acute seizures, but it was more effective in male mice. Gabapentin (brand names: Aclonium, Equipax, Gantin, Gabarone, Gralise, Neurontin, Neurostil, Progresse) is a medicine used in dogs and cats. Vets use gabapentin in dogs to treat a number of conditions, including situational anxiety, chronic pain, and (less commonly) seizures or muscle tremors. This medication is very affordable and low in side effects, making it a low-risk option for many dogs.
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