Gabapentin Side Effects in Dogs

Gabapentin is a prescription drug originally developed to treat epilepsy in humans, but today, it's used to relieve pain in people, dogs, cats and a variety of other animals. Read on to find out what Gabapentin mean for your dog.

Treatment

Gabapentin is used mainly in dogs and cats for chronic pain caused by neuropathic disorders. However, it has also been recommended for dealing with arthritic pain and pain caused by malignancy.

How It Works

Oral Gabapentin, the most common form of the drug, is absorbed by the duodenum and partially metabolized by the liver. If your dog has liver or kidney problems, Gabapentin may not be the best drug choice.

Mild Sedation

Although they're considered minor side effects, the most common side effects of Gabapentin are mild sedation, increased drowsiness or lethargy in some dogs.

Ataxia

In some cases, ataxia can occur after use of Gabapentin. Ataxia is a neurological symptom where the muscles no longer work together correctly.

Withdrawal

You should not stop using Gabapentin abruptly. Abrupt withdrawal of the drug may cause seizures or extreme rebound pain in dogs.

Effects in Laboratory Animals

Although there has been no link in dogs, Gabapentin caused fetal loss in laboratory animals, and should only be used in pregnant or lactating animals when absolutely necessary.

Warning

Do not give your dog the human form of Gabapentin for pain. The human form of Gabapentin contains xylitol and can be toxic to dogs.