Amantadine 100 mg capsules are utilized in veterinary medicine to alleviate chronic pain in dogs and cats, particularly when standard treatments are insufficient. Originally developed as an antiviral agent, amantadine's efficacy in pain management stems from its ability to inhibit N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the central nervous system, thereby diminishing pain perception.
Common indications for amantadine include osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc disease, and cancer-related pain. The typical dosage ranges from 3 to 5 mg/kg, administered orally once or twice daily, depending on the severity of the condition and the veterinarian's guidance. Amantadine is often used in conjunction with other analgesics, such as NSAIDs or gabapentin, to enhance pain relief.
Side effects may include gastrointestinal disturbances like vomiting, diarrhea, or gas, as well as behavioral changes such as agitation or drowsiness. Caution is advised when prescribing amantadine to pets with kidney or liver dysfunction, heart disease, or seizure disorders. As with all medications, it should be used under strict veterinary supervision and regularly monitored to ensure safety and efficacy.
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