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Methocarbamol in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Methocarbamol

Updated on September 10, 2024

Methocarbamol is a skeletal muscle relaxant.

Methocarbamol

Summary

Used For:

Muscle spasms, tetanus, myositis, intervertebral disc pain associated with primary musculoskeletal disease or toxic agents

Brands:

Robaxin, Robaxin-V

Species:

Dogs, cats and horses

Drug type:

Muscle-relaxer

Prescription required:

Yes

Pregnancy and lactation:

Safety in pregnant or lactating animals has not been established.

Side effects:

Weakness, dizziness, salivation, sedation
 

General description

Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant. It is used to treat muscle spasms in dogs, cats and other pets. It is also used in the treatment of strychnine poisoning, tetanus and other toxicities.

Uses

Tetanus, muscle spasms, myositis

How it works

Methocarbamol works by stopping the signal that causes contraction of the muscle from the nerve, resulting in muscle relaxation.

Dosage

**Dogs and Cats**: 22-44 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth every 8 hours. Higher doses may be necessary depending on the severity of disease.

Forms

Methocarbamol is available in 500 and 750 milligram tablets.

Storage information & handling

Store tablets in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.

What results can I expect?

Muscle relaxation occurs quickly after giving the medication, but the effects only last for 8 hours in small animals. This is why it is often given three times per day.

Missed Dosage

If a dose is missed, continue with the next dosage at the scheduled time.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Overdose can cause sedation, weakness and dizziness.

Side effects

May include: * Sedation * Dizziness * Salivation * Vomiting

Contraindications

*Do not use with medications that cause effects on the central nervous system.

Drug interactions

No known drug interactions.

Precaution

Do not use with other drugs that suppress the central nervous system or cause sedation. Safety in pets that are pregnant or lactating is unknown.

Sources

*Saunders Handbook of Veterinary Drugs* *VIN Veterinary Drug Handbook*

Related Questions

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My dog I heated uses tampon is it an emergency

Unfortunately I'm having a little trouble understand your question as I'm not sure what you mean by "My dog I heated uses tampons..." I'm wondering if Bella ate a tampon or if you wanted to use one on her while she is in heat. I will answer both to be safe. If she ate a tampon, then yes this is a medical emergency and she has to see a vet now. Tampons can easily cause obstructions in the GI tract, especially since they are absorbent and can get large in the stomach from liquid in there. if Bella ate a tampon, you need to take her into a vet immediately to get it removed. If she is on heat, no you cannot use a tampon to control her bleeding. It's not safe to use at all, and are not meant for dogs. You can put a diaper on her to catch any bloody discharge. There are dog specific diapers online and at pets stores, or you can use one made of a human child. Just cut a hole in it for her tail. Hopefully this answers your question. If it doesn't, I'm sorry and ask you post again in the forum for free to it can get answered!

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I'm glad to see that Pippin has been neutered because this eliminates that possibility of hormone-fueled behavioral changes and aggression. Behavioral changes in cats can occur at any point in time, and could be related to anxiety or stressful situations (even rearranging furniture or introducing new people to the home can be stressful to cats). Without a lot more information and observing Pippin's behaviors, I can't precisely tell you why these changes are occurring. It may be best to consult a veterinary behaviorist in your home so that they can observe everything firsthand. You can also try using calming pheromone collars or diffusers (Feliway is one example), and discussing the use of anxiety medication with Pippin's vet. I hope that all goes well!

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.