Gabapentin vs Amantadine: what's the difference?
How Gabapentin and Amantadine compare: what each is for, how it works, side effects and cost, side by side.
Last updated: October 2026 · 3 sources · see sources
Side by side
| Gabapentin | Amantadine | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Gabapentin | Amantadine |
| Brand names | Neurontin | Symmetrel |
| For | Dogs and cats | Dogs and cats |
| Prescription | Prescription | Prescription |
| Used for | Treats chronic pain, especially nerve pain, and seizures, usually with other medicines. In cats it is also widely used to ease fear before vet visits. [1] | Used mainly as an add-on for long-term pain, often with an NSAID, opioid or gabapentin. [2] |
| How it works | It calms overactive nerve signals in the brain and spinal cord. [1] | Originally an antiviral, it also blocks NMDA receptors that keep pain signals 'turned up' in chronic pain. [2] |
| Common side effects | Sleepiness and wobbliness are the main ones. Vets often start low and build up to limit them. [1] | Not well studied in pets. Possible agitation, soft stool, diarrhea and gas. [2] |
| Use with care | Use caution in pets with kidney disease. Don't stop it suddenly if your pet takes it for seizures. The human liquid can contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. [1] | Avoid in pets with untreated glaucoma. Use caution with liver, kidney or heart disease or seizures. [2] |
| Typical price | Gabapentin for a dog, at a pharmacy: $4–$10 a month [3] | No reliable published price |
| Full guide | Gabapentin guide | Amantadine guide |
Key differences
On the basics they are alike: same kind of animal, same way to get them. The differences are in how they work and what else they cover, shown in the table above.
Which one is right for my pet?
That is a call for your vet. They weigh your pet's age, weight, other health problems, other medicines and what you can realistically give at home.
Switching from Gabapentin to Amantadine is common, but do it only with your vet's plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between Gabapentin and Amantadine?
Both are often added to other pain medicines for long-term pain. Amantadine blocks NMDA receptors that keep pain turned up.
Is Gabapentin better than Amantadine?
Neither is better for every pet. Your vet chooses based on your pet's species, age, health history, other medicines and what you can manage at home.
Can my pet take Gabapentin and Amantadine together?
Only if your vet says so. Some medicines in the same family should not be combined, and others are often used together. Always check before adding or switching.
Do Gabapentin and Amantadine need a prescription?
Gabapentin: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian. Amantadine: Yes. It needs a prescription from a veterinarian.
How much do Gabapentin and Amantadine cost?
Gabapentin: Gabapentin for a dog, at a pharmacy $4–$10 a month. Amantadine: no reliable published price. Prices vary by pet size, pharmacy and clinic.
Related
This page is general information for planning, not veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about your own pet.