Medication to Treat Seizures and Reduce Pain in Pets
The brand name Neurontin is also used to market the prescription medication gabapentin.
Although it was primarily created for human usage, veterinary medicine is increasingly using it to treat seizures and chronic pain in cats and dogs. If gabapentin has been prescribed for your pet, it is imperative that you are aware of how medication is given and any potential side effects.
Use on canines and felines
Both cats and dogs are gabapentin users. For either of the two main causes, your veterinarian might advise it. Veterinarians routinely provide gabapentin to animals as a painkiller prior to surgery. It has an anticonvulsant effect in addition to being used as an antiepileptic medication to treat seizures.
Gabapentin works well for neuropathic pain relief (pain that results from damage or dysfunction in the nervous system). It is frequently used to treat pain caused by many cancer types.
Treatment for Seizures
Gabapentin may be used when other medications have failed to manage refractory seizures in canines or felines. It can be used alone or in conjunction with other antiepileptic medications.
As a first-line type of treatment for seizures and epilepsy, gabapentin is increasingly being used in place of more traditional medications like phenobarbital.
Adverse consequences
The side effect of gabapentin that is most frequently noticed is sedation. Watch out for signs in your pet, such as fatigue or clumsiness.
The body removes gabapentin almost exclusively through the kidneys and urine system. Gabapentin should therefore be offered to animals with kidney issues with caution.
WARNING
Giving gabapentin to your pet shouldn’t end suddenly. A potentially fatal seizure could result from this. If you notice anything unusual, be careful to talk to your veterinarian about your concerns.
Xylitol and gabapentin both
Oral solutions for gabapentin may contain xylitol. It is well known that dogs are toxic to xylitol. In addition to being a common sugar substitute, it can also be used to sweeten liquid gabapentin dosages for human consumption.
When individuals attempt to treat their pets with medications intended for humans, problems occur. When utilizing liquid gabapentin, even though it’s never a good idea, it’s essential.
WARNING
For these reasons, it is not recommended to treat pets with gabapentin solutions that contain xylitol. Your veterinarian should be made aware of this.
Additional potential medication interactions
Negative drug interactions are possible when gabapentin is taken with a variety of other medications. Antacids, hydrocodone, and morphine may alter the way gabapentin is metabolized when taken together. Modified dosages can be required if gabapentin needs to be used along with specific medications.
If you suspect your pet is sick, contact your veterinarian straight away. When in doubt about your family pet’s health, always see your veterinarian. They have examined your pet, are aware of its medical history, and may be able to offer the best guidance for your pet.
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