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Gabapentin

Neurontin

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Sourced from primary literature. Awaiting credentialed clinical reviewer — our editorial process.

Drug Class

Analgesic

Routes

PO

Indications

adjunct analgesicChronic musculoskeletal painchronic painchronic pain adjunctFeline hyperesthesia syndromeneoplasia painNeuropathicNeuropathic painPost-operative pain adjunct (orthopedic)Pre-visit anxiolysisSeizure management adjunctself-mutilation

Mechanism of Action

Binds to alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels, modulating neurotransmitter release. Reduces central sensitization.

Side effects & warnings

Sedation common, especially initially. Some oral solutions contain xylitol (toxic to dogs). Taper to discontinue (do not stop abruptly). Adjust dose in renal impairment.

Species with Gabapentin dosing data (26 dose rules)

African Grey ParrotAfrican Pygmy HedgehogBearded DragonCat (Domestic)Dog (Domestic)FerretGuinea PigRabbit (Domestic)

Evidence levels across 26 dose rules

Moderate×10Anecdotal×6Strong×2Extrapolated×6Weak×2

Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.

Backed by 4 published primary sources

  • · Carpenter 6e
  • · Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed
  • · ExoticRx 2026 (hedgehog dosing guide)
  • · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Sample dosing (2 of 26 cited rules)

Free-tier preview — dog and cat dosing. Pro and Student unlock all 8 species including reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine.

SpeciesRouteDoseFrequencyEvidenceSource
Dog (Domestic)PO10–20 mg/kgq8hModeratePlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Dog (Domestic)PO5–10 mg/kgq8-12hModeratePlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

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