Gabapentin for Dogs: What Australian Vets Want You to Know

If your vet has your dog's gabapentin script in hand, you may have several questions. What is it for? Is it safe? Why is my dog wobbly? Gabapentin for dogs is a medication that vets use to manage long-term and neuropathic pain and help take the edge off a sore dog. This article will cover what it's for, what to do and not to do, and when to contact your vet.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice from a vet who knows your dog.

What is gabapentin?

Gabapentin was originally developed for human use, and is registered in Australia as a human medicine for treating specific types of seizures and nerve pain. It is a Schedule 4 prescription only medication, and is available in tablet or capsule form.

Vets often prescribe the human tablets or capsules for dogs, or have it compounded into a suitable dose for your dog. Human medications used in this capacity are classed as 'off-label'. The Australian Veterinary Association notes that off-label use of medications is common, and that vets are allowed to use professional judgement to prescribe medicines registered for human use.

Why vets prescribe gabapentin for dogs

A review of the veterinary literature published in the journal Animals makes the following points regarding the medical use of gabapentin in dogs:

• Treatment of chronic pain, including in elderly dogs
• Management of neuropathic (nerve) pain
• Reducing post-operative pain after surgery
• Adjunctive treatment for seizures (used alongside other medications)
• Treatment of anxiety in some cases

In most cases it is used as one pillar of a broader treatment plan. Vets tend to use it alongside other treatments rather than on its own.

How gabapentin works and how fast it helps

Gabapentin works by affecting the nervous system, and so it can help with both nerve pain and seizures. According to Plumb's Veterinary Medication Guide, most dogs begin to notice an effect within one to two hours of administration. It is a short-acting medication, so the effects usually wear off within 24 hours. It may last longer in dogs with reduced kidney or liver function.

Because of this, the dose and frequency will be decided by your vet based on your dog's weight and other individual factors.

Giving gabapentin to your dog

Here are some useful tips on giving gabapentin to your dog, from Plumb's Veterinary Medication Guide:

• Can be given with or without food. If your dog is feeling unwell or is vomiting after a dose on an empty stomach, try giving future doses with food or a treat.
• Avoid giving it within two hours of an antacid, as this reduces the amount of gabapentin absorbed by the body.
• If you miss a dose, just give the next dose at the regular time. Do not give a double dose.
• Do not stop giving gabapentin to your dog suddenly without talking to your vet, especially if it's for seizures. Stopping abruptly can trigger seizures.
• Do not give your dog your own gabapentin or another pet's gabapentin. The medication must be dosed for your dog specifically.

Side effects to watch for

The most common side effects of gabapentin in dogs are drowsiness and lack of coordination. Your dog may appear sleepy and just the tiniest bit wobbly. Tell your vet if these side effects are severe, worsening or not settling.

Gabapentin is generally used with caution in dogs with kidney disease. Always tell your vet about any other medications, supplements or conditions your dog has, and whether your dog is pregnant or nursing.

The xylitol warning

An important consideration is that some liquid formulations of gabapentin for human use contain xylitol, a sweetener which is extremely poisonous to dogs. The Merck Veterinary Manual specifically warns that liquid gabapentin preparations often contain xylitol. Ingestion of xylitol can cause severe decreases in blood sugar levels in dogs and, less often, liver damage. Always ensure you are using the medication as prescribed by your vet, and if a liquid formulation is required, your vet will be able to recommend a xylitol-free option.

Can gabapentin kill a dog?

This is a common concern for many pet owners, and is understandable. According to Plumb's Veterinary Medication Guide, a one-off overdose of gabapentin is unlikely to cause more than sleepiness, wobbliness and diarrhoea. However, the main concern with overdose is xylitol toxicity if the product contains xylitol, which can cause potentially fatal decreases in blood sugar levels and liver damage.

If you suspect your dog has ingested an overdose of gabapentin or has been given the wrong formulation, please contact your vet or the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 immediately. When possible, have the packaging of the medication with you when you call.

Frequently asked questions

Is dog gabapentin the same as human gabapentin?

Yes, it's the same medication. Human gabapentin is often used for dogs. The difference lies in the dose and formulation, which are worked out by your vet for your dog's specific needs. Human liquid formulations of gabapentin may contain the sweetener xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Never use a different formulation without checking with your vet.

How long does gabapentin take to work in dogs?

Most dogs begin to notice an effect one to two hours after administration. The medication usually wears off within 24 hours.

Will gabapentin make my dog sleepy?

Drowsiness is a common side effect of gabapentin in dogs, along with lack of coordination (feeling wobbly).

Can my dog take gabapentin with other pain relief?

In short, yes, but always check with your vet. Medications like gabapentin are often used as part of a broader pain management plan, which may involve other medications. Always only use medications recommended by your vet.

Can I give my dog gabapentin without seeing a vet?

No, you should never give your dog gabapentin without a vet's advice. It is a prescription only medication, and the correct dose must be worked out by your vet based on your dog's weight and other factors.

Need help with your dog's pain?

If you're finding that your dog is slowing down and struggling to cope with everyday activities, a vet house call could make all the difference, especially for dogs who don't cope well with travel. Pawssum vets have treated over 380,000 pets nationwide and are rated 4.6 from 2,805 Google reviews.

We're open 6am to 11pm, 7 days a week. Book a vet home visit online or call us on 0480 030 580, and we'll send out a vet to your door.