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.
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