Gabapentin overdose in dogs: Symptoms and prevention

In this article:

• Can dogs overdose on gabapentin?
• Signs of gabapentin overdose in dogs
• Causes of gabapentin overdose in dogs
• What is the maximum dosage for gabapentin in dogs

In this article

• Can dogs overdose on gabapentin?
• Signs of gabapentin overdose in dogs
• Causes of gabapentin overdose in dogs
• What is the maximum dosage for gabapentin in dogs

Gabapentin is a prescription anticonvulsant drug (aka an anti-seizure medication) and pain medication. It can help treat seizures and relieve anxiety. According to a 2024 study in Animals, gabapentin is also safe and well-tolerated for dogs with behavior disorders. As far as pain management, dogs who have degenerative joint diseases or nerve pain may need gabapentin to treat chronic pain or neuropathic pain.

Gabapentin comes in capsule, tablet, and oral solution forms. However, the human liquid version should not be given to dogs. It may contain an artificial sweetener, xylitol, that can be dangerous to dogs. If liquid gabapentin is needed, a provider at a compounding pharmacy must prepare it.

When administered safely, the efficacy of gabapentin is strong; the use of gabapentin for these conditions in dogs can have excellent results. It’s also a short-acting medication, meaning it kicks in quickly.

However, it’s important to take caution with this medication since it has potential side effects. The most common side effects of gabapentin include sedation, ataxia (loss of coordination), and loss of appetite. No serious side effects have been noted. 

Additionally, gabapentin is typically used as a human medicine; it’s prescribed off-label for dogs since it doesn’t have FDA approval for them yet. Last, and scariest, dogs can overdose on this medication.

RELATED: Save up to 80% on gabapentin

Can dogs overdose on gabapentin?

Yes, dogs can take too much gabapentin and even overdose on it, causing severe symptoms that require medical care. This is (obviously) a dangerous condition, although with appropriate medical care, most dogs fully recover from gabapentin overdose. “Dogs that are either sensitive to gabapentin, or if dosing higher than recommended, then dogs can overdose on the medication,” says Dr. Dwight Alleyne, DVM, veterinarian expert with JustAnswer.

“Toxicity depends on multiple things, such as the dose ingested, the dog’s size, and overall health,” adds Dr. Nita Vasudevan, DVM, a veterinarian and veterinary consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance.

The maximum healthy published dose is 30 mg/kg.

Signs of gabapentin overdose in dogs

The veterinarians share the following adverse effects that can occur with a gabapentin overdose.

Neurological signs

• Ataxia, or loss of coordination
• Heavy sedation or lethargy

Gastrointestinal symptoms

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite

Causes of gabapentin overdose in dogs

Overdoses can occur in a few ways, including “accidental ingestion, miscalculation of dose, or interaction with other drugs that enhance the effect of the gabapentin,” Dr. Alleyne says.

“Overdoses can occur with accidental ingestion if dogs chew on a bottle of gabapentin or eat pills left out,” Dr. Vasudevan adds. 

Both vets urge dog owners to keep the medication out of reach of the pet—like in a locked cabinet, for example—and to follow the prescription label carefully. 

Additionally, make sure the vet has the accurate weight for your dog and the appropriate-sized measuring device is used, Dr. Alleyne says, especially when the gabapentin is in oral liquid form.

Dr. Vasudevan adds the importance of clarifying how to administer the medication to your dog with the vet. (It’s not always as clear as it is with humans.)

As far as drug interactions to be aware of, Dr. Vasudevan warns against opioids. “Gabapentin combined with sedatives or medications affecting the central nervous system (e.g. opioids) can amplify effects and lead to overdose symptoms,” she says. “Always inform your veterinarian about all medications or supplements your dog is taking before starting gabapentin.”

What is the maximum dosage for gabapentin in dogs

The maximum dose of gabapentin for dogs is 30 mg/kg. For context, the standard dose is 10-20 mg/kg. However, veterinarians may prescribe higher or lower doses depending on various factors.

“The dosage of gabapentin can vary based on the condition being treated, previous response to other medications, and if the pet is concurrently on any other medications,” Dr. Alleyne says. For example, dogs with kidney disease or liver disease may need an adjusted dose.

Dr. Vasudevan agrees that the range can vary greatly; for example, a dog may need more for seizure management than pain management. She urges dog parents to get dosage approval by their prescribing veterinarian.

In case an overdose happens, knowing the next steps to take is crucial. “If you suspect an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately,” Dr. Vasudevan says, encouraging pet owners to share information about symptoms, how much the dog consumed, and the timing of the situation.

FYI, she says the vet may recommend induced vomiting and/or hospitalization for IV fluids, monitoring, or respiratory support.

Calling the Pet Poison Helpline is another great option. The number is (855) 764-7661.

For what it’s worth, supplements are an alternative treatment option and a common practice among veterinarians. Veterinarian professionals may encourage dog owners to buy natural supplements, such as joint supplements for pain, along with the dog’s current medication. This adjunctive therapy can provide additional support. Another medication that may be helpful is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for anxiety.

With that said, dogs are usually fine, Dr. Vasudevan says. “When handled properly, gabapentin is a safe and effective medication for many dogs, but careful dosing and storage are essential to prevent overdoses.”