Pet Medication 101: Methocarbamol

1. Drug Name:

Methocarbamol

2. Brand Names:

Robaxin, Robaximol, Robinax

3. How Dispensed:

Prescription-only

4. Forms:

Tablets 50mg, Tablets 500mg, Tablets 750mg, Injectable

5. Drug Type/Class:

Muscle relaxer

6. Uses in Dogs and Cats:

Methocarbamol is used to treat muscle spasms associated with injuries, intervertebral disc disease, and certain toxins (ie permethrin toxicity).

7. How it Works:

Methocarbamol works by blocking the nerve impulses that send pain signals to the brain.

8. Side Effects and/or Signs of Overdosage:

Methocarbamol is very well tolerated by pets and side effects are infrequent. However, drowsiness, dizziness, stomach upset, vomiting, anorexia, and vision problems could occur.

9. Drug Interactions:

Methocarbamol is not recommended with codeine or hydrocodone syrup. Avoid drugs that cause drowsiness like sedatives, other muscle relaxers, and opioids.

10. Cautionary Statements:

It should be avoided in patients that have myasthenia gravis because it could cause a relapse of symptoms. Methocarbamol should be used with caution in pets with kidney disease or in pregnant and nursing pets.

Read more:

Signs of Pain in Dogs

Signs of Pain in Cats

Nothing to bark about! Causes of Limping in Dogs (and what you should do!)

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