CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Simon Platt, Fear Free,
Medication: Gabapentin
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Medication: Gabapentin
Your cat has been prescribed the active ingredient gabapentin to treat refractory seizures or for the management of pain. Gabapentin may also be prescribed to treat anxiety in cats.Key points: • Anticonvulsant drug. • Kidney and liver function should be evaluated prior to use. • Dosage: twice daily.
⚠️There are no licensed veterinary products containing gabapentin. Your veterinary surgeon will explain off-licence use. 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
- Gabapetin (gaba-pent-in).
Brand name
- Neurontin® (Europe & UK, US).
- Neurostil®, Gantin®, Gabarone®, Gralise®, Progresse®, Aclonium®, and Equipax® (US).
- Used off-label.
Class of drug
- Anticonvulsant.
Storage
- Store tablets at room temperature.
- Store liquid form in refrigerator.
Why has my cat been prescribed gabapentin?
Your veterinarian has prescribed gabapentin to manage seizures that are refractory to other treatments such as phenobarbitone. It may also be used to manage chronic pain, including neuropathic pain, as well as possibly postoperative pain and fear or anxiety in cats.
How is the medication given?
Gabapentin is given orally as film-coated tablets or capsules, with or without food. The dose may be increased incrementally from a lower starting dose. Liquid formulations are also available. Confirm that the liquid formulation is free of xylitol (an artificial sweetener) as xylitol may be toxic to cats.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Overall, gabapentin is well-tolerated. Moderate sedation and ataxia (incoordination) can be expected in many cats depending on the dose.
Drug interactions
Cimetidine has been reported to reduce clearance of gabapentin. Antacids may reduce the absorption of gabapentin from the stomach. If your pet takes antacids, it is advised to wait 2 hours before gabapentin is given.How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Gabapentin should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. A tapered withdrawal of gabapentin is recommended if your veterinarian decides to stop administration to avoid any epileptic fits or rebound pain being triggered.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused gabapentin safely - do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save gabapentin 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. If you give an extra dose then call your veterinarian for advice.
My cat 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?
Gabapentin should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for:
- Do not give to other pets in the household.
- No information available on use in young kittens.
- No information available on use in pregnant or lactating animals.
- Use with caution in cats with kidney impairment or severe kidney disease.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on gabapentin?
There are no specific monitoring requirements but your veterinarian may monitor that the medication is working.