If your dog experiences seizures, anxiety, or chronic pain, it might feel like you're always at your veterinarian's office for a new test or treatment. These conditions can be difficult to manage, and your vet might need to try a few different things in order to help your dog feel better.

In recent years, veterinarians have begun prescribing gabapentin for dogs more and more often. This drug has a several uses in both human and veterinary medicine and can help some dogs with seizures, pain, or anxiety. Depending on your dog's diagnosis, gabapentin might just end up being the right choice for your pet.

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant drug that is used in humans and some animals to treat seizures, neuropathic pain, and anxiety. The primary mechanism of action is not known, but the drug is structurally similar to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter responsible for communication in the central nervous system. GABA blocks signals associated with seizures, pain, and anxiety. Gabapentin appears to work in a similar manner to the body's natural GABA.

Veterinarians most commonly prescribe gabapentin for dogs to manage chronic pain, usually in conjunction with other pain medications (particularly NSAIDs like carprofen). Gabapentin works best on nervous system pain, but it can be effective against pain from conditions like osteoarthritis due to the way chronic pain changes pain pathways in the brain. Gabapentin is not as effective for acute pain because of the way it works in the brain.

Gabapentin is sometimes used as an adjunct to other seizure control drugs in dogs with epilepsy or other seizure disorders. Although it may be used alone, it is typically less effective than other anticonvulsants.

RELATED: Signs Your Dog Might Be Having a Seizure

In recent years, veterinary behaviorists have begun using gabapentin to ease anxiety, either alone or along with drugs like trazodone.

Mild sedation and ataxia (wobbly or drunken gait) are the most common side effects of gabapentin in dogs. The severity of these signs will vary from dog to dog and also depend on the dose. Dogs with sensitivity may experience extreme lethargy and sleepiness. Contact your vet if your dog seems too sedated or "drunk" while taking gabapentin; your vet may adjust the dose or change to a different drug. Though uncommon, some dogs may develop diarrhea while on this medication.

The dosage of gabapentin will vary depending on the condition being treated and any other drugs in concurrent use. For seizure control, most dogs are dosed at 10 to 20 milligrams per kilogram of body mass every 6-12 hours.

Lower doses are typically used for pain management, often ranging from 5 to 10 milligrams per kilogram of body mass every 6-12 hours. For ease of administration, most vets prescribe gabapentin to be given every 8 hours.

It's possible for dogs to overdose on gabapentin, but serious complications are unlikely. In most cases, gabapentin overdose causes diarrhea, extreme sedation, lethargy, and ataxia. Although overdose is typically not serious, dogs still need veterinary attention. Contact your vet for advice—you may be instructed to induce vomiting or bring your dog to the clinic for supportive care.

Gabapentin is given orally as a capsule, tablet, or liquid solution. It may be given with or without food. Many dog parents find it helpful to hide the tablet or capsule in something like a Pill Pocket. If you mix gabapentin with food, watch your dog to ensure it's all consumed. Try to give gabapentin as close as possible to the prescribed intervals (often every 8 hours). If you miss a dose, give it right away and continue the schedule as directed.

It's important to note that the commercially-available solution may contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs. If your dog needs a low dose of gabapentin, your vet may send you to a compounding pharmacy to have a safe suspension made.

RELATED: CBD for Dogs: What It Is and How It Might Help With Your Dog's Pain or Anxiety

For most dogs, gabapentin will start to work within an hour or two of dosing. It typically lasts about six hours. However, each dog is different. Talk to your vet if gabapentin does not seem to be helping your dog.

Gabapentin is safe to use along with many other prescription drugs. It should be used carefully along with hydrocodone and morphine because each can change the way the other drug works in the body. Antacids may decrease the efficacy of gabapentin, so dosing of gabapentin should be given at least two hours apart from antacid doses.

Almost daily we are exposed to images of disastrous droughts, hurricanes and deadly wildfires (including those caused by things like gender-reveal parties!). We’re presented with dizzying facts and figures about “climate crisis,” greenhouse emissions, and the importance of holding global warming at 1.5 degrees. Not to mention we’re seeing multiple species of animals dying out, […]

Our practical, supportive guide to managing and treating chronic pain will help you take back your life.

Dogs need sunscreen just like humans do. Even though canine skin may be covered in fluffy fur, the sun’s sneaky UV rays can still cause damage—the sun doesn’t care what species you are! Banfield Pet Hospitals...

If you're experience back pain often, your office chair just may be the culprit. Here's what specs to look for in a supportive office chair, per these doctors.

Pups are likely replaying the events of their day—yes, that scenic walk or game of catch—as they snooze.

Retractable dog leashes are leads that change length. They’re spring-loaded for flexibility, meaning your dog can roam farther than they might be able to when tethered to a regular leash. As the human holding...

If you are like me and tend to prioritize meditation, journaling, and therapy for your mental health, allow me to tell you why you need to start adding affirmations to that list of things, too. Not only does science say that affirmations can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety and worry after just a month of use, but they're also just a really great way to keep you grounded.

Clinical health psychologist Christina Luberto told NBC...

Wakisha Stewart, a 31-year-old nursing assistant, knew something was very wrong. But the receptionist said: "Oh honey, you're having a panic attack."

This is the most wholesome story you’ll see today 🥹

A couple had no idea they were snuggling a stranger in their bed the whole night.

Ashwagandha, the non-toxic herb, is yet another TikTok trend that’s gaining attention in the U.S. for its ability to help bust stress and anxiety — and after these two years, we need all the help we can get to calm our nervous system. According to hormone nutritionist Maritza Worthington, FDN-P, CHNC, ashwagandha, also known as […]

Teddy the golden retriever has everything a dog could possibly want in this stunning bedroom — all thanks to his loving dad.

See what the hype is about.

Watch out for thesescams that could impact you while online shopping.

This clean machine tackles stains and dirt like no other, with powerful suction and gorgeous results.

Protect your assets with these full-coverage UPF 50+ winners, now available in 12 colors and styles.

You're not alone if you share a password or two with coworkers or extended family members. Here's why security experts say that's risky.

If you're planning on taking a trip this summer, follow these tips to avoid travel scams online.

Hackers are always trying to find ways to gain access to your personal information. Here's how to protect yourself and your devices.