What is Gabapentin?
Nerve pain and seizures in people; pain, anxiety before vet visits and seizures in dogs and cats; also used in topical pain creams.
At Pharmacy on the Park, Gabapentin is compounded in our pharmacy from a prescription, in the strength and form your prescriber orders.
How does it work?
Binds calcium channels on nerve cells and reduces the release of pain and excitement signals.
What is it used for?
Nerve pain and seizures in people; pain, anxiety before vet visits and seizures in dogs and cats; also used in topical pain creams. Your prescriber determines the use, dose and monitoring.
How is it used?
- Flavored oral suspension. Flavored suspensions are shaken well and measured with the oral syringe we provide, then given by mouth.
- Capsule. Capsules are swallowed by mouth. For pets, a capsule can often be hidden in a small treat if your veterinarian agrees.
- Cream. Creams are applied to the area your prescriber directs. Metered dispensers such as Topi-CLICK® deliver the same amount each time. Wash your hands after applying.
- Tablet. Tablets are taken by mouth as directed on your label.
- Chewable treat. Chewable treats are given like a snack.
- Transdermal gel (PLO). Transdermal gel comes in pre-measured syringes. Wearing a glove, rub the measured amount into the hairless inner ear, alternating ears if directed.
- Vaginal preparation. Vaginal preparations are inserted with an applicator or dispenser, usually at bedtime, as directed.
- Suppository. Suppositories are inserted as directed. If one softens, chill it briefly before use.
Follow the directions on your label. The strength, amount and schedule are set by your prescriber.
Side effects and safety
Commonly reported: Drowsiness, dizziness, wobbliness in pets. Call your prescriber or us about any reaction that concerns you.
Who should use caution?
People with kidney disease (dose adjustment needed). Liquids made for people may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs; pet formulations are made without it. Share your full medical history and medication list with your prescriber.
How should it be stored?
Check your label: many flavored liquids are refrigerated. Shake well before each dose. Keep treats sealed and follow the label; some are refrigerated. Store syringes as directed on the label, capped and away from heat. Keep suppositories cool; many are refrigerated. Always follow the storage directions and beyond-use date on your label, and keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
Why is it compounded?
Compounding lets us prepare Gabapentin in the exact strength your prescriber orders, in forms such as flavored oral suspension, capsule, cream. Flavoring helps pets and people take it more easily. We can also leave out dyes, fillers or allergens when needed.
Gabapentin is also prepared in combination with Baclofen, Lidocaine, Estradiol, Ketoprofen. See combination preparations in our library.