Tramadol is the generic name of the brand name drug Ultram. This medication is a human pain drug, but many vets are discovering that it is effective for treating pain in dogs as well.
Tramadol works well for treating canine post-surgical pain, discomfort from injuries, and chronic pain from illnesses and diseases like arthritis and cancer. To find out how the medication relieves pain in dogs, see the article Canine Drug to Treat Pain.
When treating their pets with tramadol, owners should be aware of how to administer the medication to their dogs and potential side effects of the drug.
Tramadol Dosage for Dogs
It is very important that dog owners follow the vet’s instructions regarding tramadol dosage for their animals. Overdose can be fatal.
According to the Veterinary Anesthesia & Analgesia Support Group, the starting dose of tramadol for a dog is 1-2 mg of medication for every kg the dog weighs, administered twice per day. Depending on the dog’s pain-management needs, the starting dosage can be up to 5 mg per kg the dog weighs, and the dose can be given at more frequent intervals, up to four times a day.
The Vet Tech blog explains that lower doses of tramadol are used for dogs that require chronic pain management, while higher doses of the med are used for dogs that need immediate pain relief, such as canines recovering from surgery.
Tramadol Side Effects in Dogs
Side effects of tramadol can result from a dog’s negative reaction to the prescribed dosage, overdose, withdrawal, and drug interactions. The latter three can be avoided by discussing the dog’s situation thoroughly with the vet and understanding the vet’s instructions.
Be sure to let the vet know about any medications the dog is currently taking. Adverse drug interactions can occur with tramadol and anti-anxiety meds, anti-depressants, narcotics, sedatives, and other drugs.
Tramadol canine side effects range from mild to severe. Adverse dog reactions to the drug can include lethargy, insomnia, decreased appetite, blurry vision, panting, constipation, diarrhea, and nausea. Some dogs experience allergic reactions to the med, which manifest as breathing difficulty, hives, and swollen face, tongue, and throat. Seizures, hallucinations, tremors, and extreme breathing problems are less common but very severe.
Unless recommended by a vet, a dog owner should not abruptly stop treating a dog with tramadol. Withdrawal symptoms can be serious.
Pain Med for Canines
Many vets are experiencing success using tramadol to treat pain in dogs. The medication is generally safe to use in canines, but the vet’s instructions regarding dosage should be followed carefully. Higher doses of the drug have a higher likelihood of causing sedation. Work with the vet to determine the best and most effective dosage for the canine.
Sources:
Chronic Pain Management from Veterinary Anesthesia & Analgesia Support Group, VASG.org. Retrieved May 25, 2010.
Tramadol, 1800PetMeds.com. Retrieved May 25, 2010.
Tramadol, VetTechs.Blogspot.com. Retrieved May 25, 2010.
Treating Canine Arthritis Pain with Tramadol for Dogs, VetInfo.com. Retrieved May 25, 2010.
Aimee Larsen Stoddard - Aimee is a professional writer/editor. She has a BA in English and is currently completing an MS in Theology.
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