What Is Gabapentin for Dogs?

Gabapentin is a human medicine that is sometimes prescribed to dogs to reduce pain and decrease anxiety.  

Gabapentin for dogs can be used alone or given in combination with other anti-anxiety medications or pain-relieving medications. However, always follow your vet’s advice and inform them of all the medications your dog is taking so they can make the best recommendation for your dog.  

Gabapentin is available in different brands and formulations, including human-labeled capsules, tablets, and oral liquids. These formulations are not interchangeable, especially since the liquid version might contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs. Only use the formulation of gabapentin as prescribed by your vet. 

In certain circumstances, your vet may recommend a compounded formulation of gabapentin. 

Compounded medications are prescribed if there’s a specific reason your pet’s health can’t be managed by an FDA-approved drug. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are created by either a veterinarian or a licensed pharmacist on an individual basis to best suit a patient’s particular needs. 

Your vet will likely prescribe gabapentin for one of two reasons: 

• Pain: Gabapentin may be prescribed as a short-term pain reliever, such as when your dog is recovering from an injury, sprain or strain, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD),or recovering from surgery. It may also be prescribed as part of a long-term pain management program if your dog has arthritis or chronic pain.  
• Anxiety: This drug can help relieve fear associated with thunderstorms or fireworks, or anxiety associated with visits to the veterinarian or groomer. It’s usually given 90 minutes before the triggering event.  

While gabapentin is classified as an anti-seizure medication for humans, it’s not usually used as an anti-seizure medication in dogs since there are other more effective options to treat dogs with seizures.  

Gabapentin is a human medication; it is not FDA-approved for use in dogs. However, it can be used extra-label. This means that vets can legally prescribe certain human drugs for use in animals in certain circumstances. This is called extra-label or off-label use because this use is not described on the drug label. Speak with your vet about whether gabapentin is right for your dog. 

While the federal government does not classify gabapentin as a controlled substance, some states classify it as a Schedule V controlled substance. As such, this may affect the prescribing, dispensing, and refilling of this medication due to stricter laws in those states.  

The safest way to know the proper dose of gabapentin for your dog is to ask your veterinarian. Follow the instructions on the drug label. 

The appropriate dose of gabapentin for your dog will depend on their individual needs, other medications they may be on, and their age, weight, and breed. 

Gabapentin tablets and capsules come in various forms and strengths ranging from 100 milligrams to 800 milligrams.  

Depending on your vet’s recommendation, you may need to cut pills in half or into quarters at home. Try the Medline Pill Splitter, then hide the pill in a treat, like the Greenies Pill Pockets Canine Real Peanut Butter Flavor Natural Dog Treats.  

Do not give any medication to your dog that has not been prescribed by your veterinarian, including gabapentin, since some human formulations may have potentially dangerous ingredients that could be harmful to your dog. 

Most dogs do well on gabapentin. 

The most common side effects observed with gabapentin in dogs are: 

• Grogginess 
• Loss of balance 
• To minimize these side effects, your vet may prescribe gabapentin at a certain starting dose. As your dog adjusts to the medication, your vet may increase the dose as needed. 

If you believe your dog may be experiencing side effects of gabapentin, talk to your vet. 

Too much gabapentin in dogs can cause: 

• Loss of balance  
• Lethargy 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 

Note that most forms of human gabapentin oral liquid contain xylitol, which can cause severe toxicity in dogs. 

If you suspect your dog has ingested too much gabapentin (or gabapentin with xylitol), immediately seek emergency veterinary care. You can call Pet Poison Helpline(855-764-7661, a fee applies) on the way to the vet.  

Is gabapentin or trazodone better for dogs?  

Gabapentin and trazodone are different types of human prescription medications. Some dogs might respond better to gabapentin and some might respond better to trazodone. Both are used for anxiety, but only gabapentin can be used to treat pain. Give your dog these medications only when directed to by a vet.   

Does gabapentin make a dog sleepy?  

Yes. Gabapentin can make a dog sleepy or groggy, especially when you are starting them on it or if your dog has just been prescribed a higher dose. This side effect generally improves with time as your dog becomes used to the medication. 

Is gabapentin a very strong painkiller?   

Yes. Gabapentin can help dogs with chronic pain or pain from nerve damage. Under the direction of your veterinarian, it can be given alone or in combination with other pain-relieving medications like NSAIDs.  

What drugs should not be taken with gabapentin for dogs? 

Your veterinarian should always be aware of all medications and supplements your dog is taking before prescribing gabapentin. They will best know what medications should not be mixed, either because they reduce gabapentin’s effectiveness or they increase the risk of dangerous side effects.  

How much gabapentin can I give my dog for pain? 

The safest way to know the proper dose is to ask your vet. Your vet will prescribe the appropriate dose based on your dog’s individual needs, age, weight, and breed.