Methocarbamol for Dogs
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What Is Methocarbamol Used for in Dogs?
Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant that treats muscle spasms in dogs. It is available as a human generic tablet.
It is commonly used for conditions such as:
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
- Muscle strains
- Toxin exposures
- Certain neurologic disorders, such as tetanus
Key Takeaways
- Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant that treats muscle spasms in dogs.
- Methocarbamol is FDA-approved for use in dogs.
- This medication calms the central nerve signals in the brain and spine so the body and muscles can relax.
- Dosing should be determined by your veterinarian; they may prescribe methocarbamol in tandem with another medication.
Is Methocarbamol FDA-Approved for Dogs?
Yes, methocarbamol is FDA-approved for dogs for the reduction of muscle spasms from inflammatory and traumatic conditions. However, since there are no veterinary formulated oral products commercially available for use in dogs on the market, human generic tablets are typically used to create a compounded oral formulation for your dog.
Speak with your veterinarian about whether methocarbamol is right for your pet.
Compounded Methocarbamol
In certain circumstances, your veterinarian may recommend a compounded formulation of methocarbamol.
Compounded medications may be prescribed if there’s a specific reason your pet’s health can’t be managed by an FDA-approved drug, such as if:
- Your pet has trouble taking the commercially available form
- The required dosage strength is not available
- The pet is allergic to an ingredient in the FDA-approved medication
Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are prepared by a veterinarian or licensed pharmacist on an individual basis to meet a pet’s specific needs.
Methocarbamol Considerations for Dogs
Methocarbamol is a sedating medication, and giving it with certain medications can result in health risks to your dog. It is important to discuss your pet’s medications, including vitamins and supplements, and medical conditions with your veterinarian.
How Does Methocarbamol Work in Dogs?
Methocarbamol works by calming the central nervous system (CNS), which slows down the firing of nerves in the brain and spine. This helps the entire body relax, including the muscles responsible for voluntary movement in the arms, legs, neck, and back.
How Do You Give Methocarbamol to Dogs?
Follow the directions as provided by your veterinarian.
Methocarbamol is typically given two to three times daily, but the exact dose and dosing schedule depend on why it has been prescribed and the severity of your pet's condition.
What Happens If You Miss a Dose of Methocarbamol?
Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if a dose is missed.
Generally, your vet may instruct you to give it when you remember, or if it is almost time for your pet’s next dose, to skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule.
Do not give extra or double doses.
What Are the Side Effects of Methocarbamol in Dogs?
Methocarbamol is generally well-tolerated, but side effects can occur.
Common side effects include:
- Sedation
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Low energy
- Weakness, especially hind limb weakness in senior dogs
- Lack of coordination
Human Side Effects
Humans should never take medication prescribed for pets, and pets should not be given medication prescribed for humans. Dosages often differ significantly.
If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, seek medical attention or call Poison Control at 800-222-1222.
Monitoring Your Pet
No specific monitoring is required for this medication, but your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on your dog’s individual needs, other medications that may be prescribed, and/or the issue that initially caused your dog to be placed on this medication.
When Should You Call Your Veterinarian?
Contact your veterinarian if you see any of the following, or if you have additional questions or concerns about the use of methocarbamol:
- Severe side effects occur
- Your dog’s condition worsens or does not improve
- You suspect an overdose
What Happens If a Pet Overdoses on Methocarbamol?
A methocarbamol overdose can cause serious central nervous system depression and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Signs of an overdose may include:
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Loss of balance
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Excessive sedation
- Staggering
- Inability to stand
- Difficulty walking
If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency veterinary care or contact an animal poison control center. Consultation fees may apply.
- Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435
How Should Methocarbamol Be Stored for Dogs?
Keep the following storage tips in mind for these medications:
- Always confirm storage instructions by reading the product label.
- Compounded medications should be stored according to the compounding pharmacy’s label.
- Store methocarbamol at controlled room temperatures between 68–77 F (20–25 C).
- Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets.
Methocarbamol for Dogs FAQs
How much methocarbamol can a pet take?
With any medication, the safest way to know the proper dose for your dog is to ask your veterinarian. The appropriate dose of methocarbamol depends on your dog’s condition and must be determined by your veterinarian.
Does methocarbamol relieve pain in pets?
No, not directly. Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant, not a pain-relieving medication. It can indirectly help relieve pain by relaxing the body and allowing it to recover from the excessive firing of the nervous system that contributes to muscle spasms, tremors, or muscle strain. Methocarbamol can be prescribed alongside pain medications.
No vet writer or qualified reviewer has received any compensation from the manufacturer of the medication as part of creating this article. All content is sourced from public references or the manufacturer.
