CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Jo Murrell,
Medication: Methocarbamol
Medication: Methocarbamol
Your dog has been prescribed methocarbamol as a muscle relaxant for muscular spasms.
Key points:
• Muscle relaxant.
• CNS depressant.
• Dosage: three times daily.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Methocarbamol (meth-o-car- ba-mol).
Brand name
- There is no veterinary licensed product in the UK, human preparations containing methocarbamol are available.
- Robaxin®-V (US).
Class of drug
- Muscle relaxant.
- CNS depressant.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F), protected from moisture and light.
Why has my dog been prescribed methocarbamol?
Your veterinarian has prescribed methocarbamol as a general muscle relaxant for muscular spasms associated with inflammation, intervertebral disk disease and injury. It may also be used to treat tetanus and some toxicities, eg strychnine.
How is the medication given?
Methocarbamol can be given orally as tablets, with or without food. It can also be given by injection by your veterinarian.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Sleepiness, salivation, weakness, incoordination and vomiting may be seen.
Let your veterinarian know if your dog is taking any other medication, in particular other central nervous system depressants.
How long will my dog need to receive this medication?
Methocarbamol is short-acting (within 1-2 hours) and will stop working within 24 hours. Administer as directed by your veterinarian.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused methocarbamol safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save methocarbamol for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Methocarbamol should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
- Use with caution in dogs with kidney disease.
- Use with caution in pregnant or nursing dogs.
If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my dog need to be monitored while on methocarbamol?
Your veterinarian will monitor your dog to make sure that the medication is working and to check for any side-effects.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on methocarbamol can be found on the package insert.
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your dog’s medication.