Pregabalin

Pregabalin In Dogs & Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Similar mechanism of action to gabapentin, binding to voltage-dependent calcium channels in the CNS reducing calcium influx and release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate and substance P.
• It also increases neuronal GABA levels.
• Pregabalin is more potent than gabapentin (3–10 times) owing to a greater affinity
  for the binding site and generally has a longer duration of action

Uses of Pregabalin

• Adjunctive therapy in the treatment of epileptic seizures refractory to conventional treatment.
• Treatment of neuropathic pain.

Dose of Pregabalin in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• For refractory epilepsy: 3–4 mg/kg p.o. q8h, starting at 2 mg/kg and gradually increasing.
• For neuropathic pain: 4 mg/kg p.o. q12h (limited evidence).

Cats:

• 1–2 mg/kg p.o. q12h (limited anecdotal evidence).

Side Effects of Pregabalin in Dogs and Cats

• Many dogs develop sedation or ataxia, although not usually severe enough to warrant cessation of the therapy.
• Mild increases in hepatic enzyme activities may also occur following prolonged therapy.

Contraindications of Pregabalin in Dogs and Cats

• Avoid use in pregnant animals as toxicity has been demonstrated in experimental studies.
• Do not discontinue abruptly.

Some Notes:

• Pregabalin seems to be well absorbed after oral administration in dogs and can reach serum levels shown to be effective in humans with neuropathic pain.
• The longer half-life suggests that a dosing schedule of every 12 hours may be appropriate in cats, which is an advantage compared with gabapentin.
• Use with care in patients with renal impairment as the kidneys excrete the majority.