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Gabapentin 400 mg (sold per capsule) product detail number 1.0

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At a Glance

Treats seizures
Helps manage chronic pain often associated with cancer or arthritis

Gabapentin

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Save $0 by joining PetPlus

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* Recommended by our Veterinarian Advisory Board

At a Glance

Treats seizures
Helps manage chronic pain often associated with cancer or arthritis

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About this product

1. Can severe anxiety cause seizures in dogs?

Answer

Yes, severe anxiety can potentially cause seizures in dogs. While anxiety itself does not directly cause seizures, the extreme stress and emotional turmoil associated with severe anxiety can trigger seizures in susceptible dogs. When dogs experience high levels of anxiety, their body releases stress hormones such as cortisol, which can affect the electrical activity in the brain and potentially trigger a seizure. Additionally, anxiety-induced hyperventilation can disrupt the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, potentially leading to a seizure.

2. What triggers a seizure in dogs?

Answer

Seizures in dogs can be triggered by various factors. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures. It is one of the most common causes of seizures in dogs, and the seizures in epileptic dogs often have no specific trigger and occur spontaneously. Certain metabolic imbalances or disorders can lead to seizures in dogs. These include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), liver disease, kidney disease, electrolyte imbalances, and hormonal imbalances. Ingestion of certain toxic substances can cause seizures in dogs. Common toxins that can trigger seizures include chocolate, xylitol (a sugar substitute), certain medications, household chemicals, pesticides, and plants such as sago palm or lilies. Tumors in the brain can cause seizures in dogs. As the tumor grows, it can affect the normal functioning of the brain and lead to abnormal electrical activity. A severe head injury or trauma can cause seizures in dogs. The trauma disrupts normal brain activity and can result in seizures. Certain infections that affect the central nervous system, such as canine distemper or meningitis, can lead to seizures in dogs. Extreme overheating or heat stroke can cause seizures in dogs. High body temperature can affect the normal functioning of the brain and trigger seizures. While anxiety itself may not directly cause seizures, severe stress and anxiety can act as triggering factors for seizures in dogs that are susceptible.

3. Can a dog become paralyzed after a seizure?

Answer

Dogs can experience temporary paralysis or weakness after a seizure. This condition is known as postictal paralysis or paresis. Postictal refers to the period following a seizure, and it can vary in duration and severity among dogs. During a seizure, the dog's muscles may contract and convulse uncontrollably. After the seizure ends, the dog may exhibit temporary neurological symptoms, including weakness or paralysis in one or more limbs. This can be a result of the disruption in the normal electrical activity of the brain during the seizure. Postictal paralysis typically resolves on its own within a few hours to a few days, although in rare cases, it may persist for a longer period. Provide a safe and calm environment for the dog during this time, ensuring they have a comfortable place to rest and recover. If you notice persistent or worsening paralysis or if your dog's condition does not improve after the postictal period, seek veterinary attention. There may be underlying factors contributing to the paralysis that require further evaluation and treatment.

4. What are the types of seizures in dogs?

Answer

In dogs, seizures can be classified into four main types based on their characteristics and the areas of the brain affected. Generalized seizures involve an abnormal electrical activity that affects the entire brain. These seizures typically result in loss of consciousness and generalized convulsions. There are several subtypes of generalized seizures. Tonic-Clonic Seizures (Grand Mal Seizures) are the most commonly recognized type. They involve stiffening of the body (tonic phase) followed by rhythmic jerking movements (clonic phase). Dogs may also drool, salivate excessively, urinate, or defecate during this type of seizure. Absence seizures are characterized by a brief loss of consciousness, usually lasting just a few seconds. During these seizures, dogs may appear to be staring into space, unresponsive, or exhibit subtle repetitive movements like lip-smacking or blinking. Atonic Seizures (Drop Attacks involve a sudden loss of muscle tone, causing dogs to collapse or fall to the ground. These seizures are often referred to as "drop attacks" because of the sudden loss of posture or control. Myoclonic seizures are characterized by brief, involuntary muscle jerks or twitches. These jerks can affect specific muscle groups or the entire body and may be repetitive. Focal seizures (also known as partial seizures) occur when abnormal electrical activity is limited to a specific area or one side of the brain. These seizures can manifest in various ways, depending on the part of the brain affected. Symptoms may include localized twitching or jerking of specific body parts, behavioral changes, hallucinations, repetitive movements, or altered sensation in a specific area. Multifocal seizures involve abnormal electrical activity occurring in multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. Dogs experiencing multifocal seizures may exhibit a combination of symptoms seen in generalized and focal seizures. Status epilepticus is a severe and prolonged seizure lasting longer than five minutes or a series of seizures occurring without full recovery of consciousness in between. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention.

5. Do seizures damage a dog's brain?

Answer

Seizures themselves do not necessarily cause immediate or direct damage to a dog's brain. However, repeated or prolonged seizures, especially if left untreated or uncontrolled, can potentially have negative effects on the brain over time. This is because seizures involve abnormal electrical activity and can temporarily disrupt the normal functioning of the brain. During a seizure, there is a surge of electrical impulses that can lead to the intense firing of neurons in the brain. This excessive neuronal activity can cause temporary alterations in brain function, including changes in behavior, motor control, and consciousness. However, once the seizure ends, the brain typically returns to its normal state. However, when seizures occur frequently or are prolonged, they can lead to a condition called status epilepticus, which is a medical emergency. Prolonged seizures can cause a continuous and intense state of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, potentially leading to oxygen deprivation and metabolic imbalances. This can result in damage to brain cells and potentially lead to long-term neurological deficits. Furthermore, certain underlying causes of seizures, such as brain tumors, infections, or head trauma, can have direct effects on the brain and may cause damage or structural changes even outside of the seizure episodes.

What is Gabapentin?

Gabapentin is a medication for the treatment of seizures. It is also used to help with chronic pain. Although Gabapentin is not FDA-approved for use in veterinary medicine, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to prescribe this medication for dogs. Gabapentin requires a prescription from your veterinarian, and is sold per capsule.

For:

Dogs

Benefits:

Treats seizures
Helps manage chronic pain often associated with cancer or arthritis

How does Gabapentin work?

Gabapentin stabilizes electrical activity in the brain which prevents seizures caused by excessive electrical activity. Gabapentin mimics the activity of GABA (a neurotransmitter) which helps to calm the nerve activity in the brain.

Cautions:

Unless the benefits outweigh the risk, do not use Gabapentin in pregnant or nursing pets.

Brand Name:

Neurontin

Generic Name:

Gabapentin

What is the most important information I should know about Gabapentin?

Gabapentin is a prescription medication not FDA approved for veterinary use; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to use this medication in dogs. Gabapentin is available as 100 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg capsules. The usual dose to treat seizures in dogs is 4.5 to 13.5 mg per lb every 8 to 12 hours. As an aid in chronic pain treatment or cancer pain in dogs, the usual dose is 1.4 mg per lb once a day.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Gabapentin to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease. The dose of Gabapentin may need to be adjusted. Unless the benefit outweighs the risks do not use Gabapentin in pregnant or nursing pets.

How should Gabapentin be given?

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Do not give antacids within 2 hours of giving Gabapentin. Antacids can affect Gabapentin blood levels. Drug interactions may occur when giving any narcotics such as hydrocodone or morphine. Do not suddenly stop the use of Gabapentin. Store Gabapentin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children.

What are the potential side effects of Gabapentin?

If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving Gabapentin and seek emergency veterinary medical attention: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or face; hives). Side effects that can occur in dogs may include drowsiness, loss of balance, swelling of the limbs, and vomiting or diarrhea. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Gabapentin?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember during the same day. However, if you don't remember until the next day, skip the dose you missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Gabapentin?

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of Gabapentin overdose include reduced activity, excessive sleepiness, loss of balance, and depression.

What should I avoid while giving Gabapentin to my pet?

Gabapentin should not be used in pets allergic to it. Do not use in pregnant or nursing pets. Use with caution in pets with kidney disease. Do not give antacids within 2 hours of giving Gabapentin. Consult your veterinarian before giving any narcotic such as hydrocodone or morphine since drug interactions can occur.

What other drugs will affect Gabapentin?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given antacids or narcotics for pain. Drugs other than those listed may also interact with Gabapentin. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines including vitamins, and supplements.

Gabapentin Directions:

Please refer to the chart below for proper dosage.

Tip:

Do not give antacids within 2 hours of giving this medication.

Gabapentin Dosage:

Gabapentin Dosage for Dogs/Puppies
Weight	Dosage
all weights	For seizures:4.5 mg-13.5 mg per pound every 8-12 hours. For pain: 1.4 mg per pound once a day.

Gabapentin Dosage for Cats
Cats
Do not use!

Gabapentin Dosage for Horses
Horses
Do not use!

Storage:

Should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and light.

Gabapentin Ingredients:

Gabapentin 100 mg Capsule
Active Ingredient (per capsule)	Amount
Gabapentin	100 mg

Gabapentin 300 mg Capsule
Active Ingredient (per capsule)	Amount
Gabapentin	300 mg

Gabapentin 400 mg Capsule
Active Ingredient (per capsule)	Amount
Gabapentin	400 mg

Product Details

What is Gabapentin?

For:

Dogs

Benefits:

Treats seizures
Helps manage chronic pain often associated with cancer or arthritis

How does Gabapentin work?

Cautions:

Unless the benefits outweigh the risk, do not use Gabapentin in pregnant or nursing pets.

Brand Name:

Neurontin

Generic Name:

Gabapentin

What is the most important information I should know about Gabapentin?

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Gabapentin to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease. The dose of Gabapentin may need to be adjusted. Unless the benefit outweighs the risks do not use Gabapentin in pregnant or nursing pets.

How should Gabapentin be given?

What are the potential side effects of Gabapentin?

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Gabapentin?

What happens if I overdose my pet on Gabapentin?

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of Gabapentin overdose include reduced activity, excessive sleepiness, loss of balance, and depression.