Tramadol is becoming popular to treat pain, both in humans and pets. But you would ask, is tramadol safe for dogs? This Buzzle article will check out all the aspects of dosage and side effects of tramadol in dogs.
Keep in Mind
Tramadol is not an FDA-approved veterinary drug, but can be used by acquiring a vet's prescription.
Tramadol is an analgesic that is used for pain relief in cases of acute or chronic pain, both in humans and pets. This drug is available by the brand name Ultram in the US, and by the name Ralivia or Dromodol in other countries. Tramadol is unique, in that, it can be administered as an alternative to Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS). It has the same effects as another pain reliever, morphine, but without its strong side effects, and is also non-addictive.
Tramadol can also be used for cats, where the use of NSAIDS may be dangerous. While the drug is safe to administer to pregnant and lactating animals, its long-term side effects have not been well studied. The drug has found use in veterinary medicine only recently, and some vets may not be aware of it.
Tramadol alleviates pain and discomfort by acting on the pain receptors in the brain, rather than at the site of injury, contrary to NSAIDS. More specifically, it is an opioid analgesic that blocks the µ-opioid pain receptors in the brain. It also works by inhibiting the reuptake of adrenalin and serotonin. Unlike other types of pain medications, it is relatively inexpensive, further increasing its popularity, both among vets and pet owners.
Uses
✔ To treat various levels of acute or chronic pain
✔ Used to relieve pain before. during, and post surgery
✔ Can help increase mobility in cases of arthritis
✔ As a cough suppressant
✔ Can be combined with NSAIDS for better pain relief
Dosage
Tramadol is generally given to dogs in a tablet form with or without food. Though the dosage depends on the severity of the dog's condition, doses in the range of 0.5 - 1.8 mg per pound are routinely administered. It is given 2 - 3 times daily in intervals of 12 hours, but in cases of cancer, it may be given once every 6 hours at a dose of 1.5 mg per pound.
Side Effects
Central nervous system depression
Tiredness
Drowsiness
Nausea
Increased anxiety and panting
Upset stomach
Difficulty sleeping
Blurred vision
Decreased appetite
Constipation
Pupil constriction
Suppresses coughing
Contact a Vet if You See
Increase in the side effects
Peeling rashes
Swelling of the face, throat, lips, or tongue
Convulsions
Pinpoint pupils
Trouble breathing
Increased agitation
Changes in behavior
Slowing of heart rate
Precautions
The dosage should always be decided by a vet. Never give your dog tramadol as per human dosage just because the drug is used by both humans and pets.
Tramadol cannot be used for animals with hypersensitivity to opioids.
Contact your vet if your dog has a previous medical history of seizures.
Tramadol should never be given along with drugs like deprynyl, serotonin reuptake inhibitors, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants.
Consult the vet if the dog has previous kidney or liver problems, or is old or debilitated. Such dogs typically need lower doses of this drug.
In hindsight, tramadol is a very safe drug that can be given to dogs, but the dosage and frequency should always be decided by a vet. Even mistakenly don't give your pet Ultracet, which contains acetaminophen along with tramadol, as it is dangerous for them. Also, administering an overdose should be avoided at all costs, as it can be dangerous.