Introduction
Gabapentin is a medication that was originally developed to treat epilepsy in humans. It works by altering electrical activity in the brain and nerves. While not FDA approved for use in dogs, gabapentin is commonly prescribed by veterinarians as an add-on pain medication, especially for chronic neuropathic pain caused by nerve damage, arthritis, and back problems. It may also be used alone or with other medications to treat seizures in dogs. Gabapentin is available as capsules, tablets, and an oral solution. It is considered a safe medication when used under veterinary guidance, with the most common side effects being mild sedation and incoordination. Overall, gabapentin can provide pain relief, reduce anxiety, control seizures, and improve quality of life in dogs when prescribed appropriately.
Reasons to Remove the Capsule
There are a couple reasons why a veterinarian may recommend removing the capsule when giving gabapentin to dogs:
Easier to administer: Dogs can sometimes have difficulty swallowing capsules or may spit them out. Removing the powder from inside the capsule allows it to be mixed into the dog’s food or given directly into the mouth. This can make administration much easier, especially for picky eaters.
Dog may spit out capsule: Some dogs are prone to spitting out capsules before swallowing them. This means they may not receive the full dosage. Taking the powder out of the capsule prevents the dog from selectively spitting it out.
Overall, removing the capsule enables accurate dosing and ensures the medication is properly administered. According to veterinarians, mixing the powder into food or giving it directly into the dog’s mouth is an effective method for giving gabapentin if the capsule poses challenges (source).
Risks of Removing the Capsule
Removing the capsule from gabapentin carries some risks that dog owners should be aware of before deciding to alter the medication. The main risks are incorrect dosing and altering the medication’s effectiveness. Gabapentin capsules contain the carefully measured dosage that veterinarians prescribe. When owners take apart the capsules, it can be difficult to portion the powder properly, which may lead to dogs receiving too high or too low of a dose (AKC, 2022). An incorrect dose of gabapentin could potentially cause side effects or be ineffective at managing the dog’s condition.
Additionally, gabapentin is specially formulated to be absorbed by the body appropriately when given in capsule form. Altering the medication by removing the powder from the capsule can change the way it is metabolized and utilized by the dog’s body, reducing its efficacy (Wedgewood Pharmacy, 2022). It’s important to only give gabapentin to dogs in the form prescribed by a veterinarian.
How to Safely Remove the Capsule
When removing the capsule to give your dog gabapentin, it’s important to do so carefully to avoid spilling the medication. Follow these steps for safe capsule removal:
1. Use your hands to gently pull the capsule apart at the seam, taking care not to crush or damage the capsule. You may need to use a bit of pressure, but be gentle.
2. Once the capsule is open, pour the powder medication onto a small plate or into an empty bowl.
3. Mix the gabapentin powder thoroughly into a small amount of your dog’s normal food until well blended.
Mixing the powder into a bit of wet dog food, broth, or peanut butter can help the medication bind to the food and make it more palatable for your dog to take. Ensure your dog eats all the food with the medication.
By removing the capsule and mixing the gabapentin powder directly into your dog’s food, you can accurately split doses and avoid any hassles getting your dog to swallow the capsule.
Dosage After Removing Capsule
The dosage should remain the same after removing the capsule. Gabapentin capsules simply contain the powdered form of the medication, so taking the powder directly provides the same amount of active ingredient. It is important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions for the proper dosage for your dog based on their weight and condition. Do not increase or decrease the dose without consulting your vet first.
According to PetMD, gabapentin dosage for dogs is typically 10-20 mg per pound every 8 to 12 hours. However, the dose may need to be adjusted based on your dog’s response and tolerance. Your vet will prescribe the appropriate dose for your dog’s specific needs.
The key is to administer the same amount of gabapentin powder without the capsule as you would give with the intact capsule. Using an oral syringe or mixing the powder thoroughly with your dog’s food can help accurately measure and give the correct dose.
Administering Without the Capsule
If you need to give your dog gabapentin without the capsule, the easiest method is to mix the powdered medication into their wet food. Make sure your dog eats all of their food so they receive the full dosage. It’s a good idea to feed your dog separately from other pets when administering medication this way. Monitor your dog as they eat to ensure they consume all of the gabapentin-laced food. The powder may change the taste of the food, so adding extra gravy or broth may entice your dog to finish their meal.
Storing After Removing Capsule
It is important to properly store gabapentin powder after removing it from the capsule to maintain its potency. The main considerations are keeping the powder dry and sealing it in an airtight container.
Exposure to moisture can cause the gabapentin powder to clump or degrade over time. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, capsules and tablets should be stored away from moisture. Similarly, Petco recommends keeping gabapentin away from humidity.
To prevent moisture exposure, the gabapentin powder should be transferred to a sealed plastic, glass, or metal container immediately after removing it from the capsule. The container should have an airtight lid or seal. Small reusable pill containers, such as old prescription bottles, can work well for storing powder.
Stored properly in a sealed container, the gabapentin powder should remain potent at room temperature for the duration it would have lasted in its original capsule form. Be sure to label the container with the medication name and any instructions.
Following proper storage methods will help maintain the effectiveness of the gabapentin powder after the capsules have been opened. Keeping the powder dry and sealed in an airtight container will prevent degradation over time.
Duration Medication Can Be Used
The expiration date on gabapentin capsules is for the medication while still inside the original capsule. Once the capsule is opened to remove the powder, the expiration timeline changes. According to veterinarians, gabapentin powder typically remains effective for 6 months after opening the capsule (https://www.justanswer.com/dog-health/h5a76-dog-takes-liquid-gabapentin-help-anxiety.html).
However, potency may start decreasing around 3-4 months after opening. It’s generally recommended to follow your veterinarian’s guidance on expiration after opening the capsule, as they can best advise based on your specific dog’s needs. Some vets may recommend discarding any unused powder after 30-60 days while others may approve using for longer.
Pay attention to any changes in effectiveness or side effects after administering gabapentin powder that has been open for an extended period. Discontinue use if you notice a decline in benefits or increase in adverse reactions. Your veterinarian can provide additional insight on expected duration of use after opening capsules.
Signs of Overdose
An overdose of gabapentin in dogs can lead to increased sedation and a lack of coordination. Some of the common signs of gabapentin overdose in dogs include:
- Excessive drowsiness or lethargy
- Wobbliness, inability to walk properly or stand
- Dilated pupils
- Low heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Weakness or tremors
- Vomiting
Gabapentin has a wide margin of safety, so life-threatening overdoses are rare. However, signs like difficulty breathing, coma or collapse do indicate an emergency. Seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog displays any concerning symptoms after taking gabapentin. Mild overdoses can often be managed at home by stopping gabapentin and monitoring the dog closely. Make sure to keep the vet’s number on hand just in case. Lower dosages may be needed for dogs that are overly sensitive to gabapentin.
According to PetMD, overdoses of gabapentin rarely result in lasting harm if treated promptly. Dogs may fully recover within 24 hours once the medication has been eliminated from their system (https://www.petmd.com/pet-medication/gabapentin). Still, it’s important to practice caution with all medications and notify your vet if you suspect an overdose.
Conclusion
In summary, removing the capsule from gabapentin for dogs can be done safely and effectively in certain situations. Consult with your veterinarian first, as there are risks involved. Proper dosage and administration are key to ensuring your dog receives the intended therapeutic benefits. Monitor your dog closely and contact your vet if any concerning signs appear. With guidance from your veterinarian, removing the gabapentin capsule can help make giving this medication easier for some dogs. However, do not change your dog’s medication routine without vet approval, as inappropriate use can be dangerous.
Always talk to your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s gabapentin dosage, administration, or capsule. Your vet knows your dog’s medical history and can advise you on the safest approach.