Educational Articles
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Gabapentin is given off label and by mouth and is used to treat pain and seizures in cats and dogs. The most common side effects include sleepiness and incoordination. Do not use this medication in pets that are allergic to it, and use cautiously in pregnant pets or those with kidney disease. Some liquid oral formulations contain xylitol, so read the label before administering. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Gentamicin ophthalmic is used in the eye to treat bacterial infections and end-stage glaucoma. Side effects may include increased redness or eye irritation. Do not use this medication if your pet is allergic to it or has a full thickness wound to the eye. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
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Gentamicin topical formulations are used to treat bacterial infections. The ophthalmic formulation is used off label to treat external ear infections by topically applying the medication directly to the ear canal. Side effects may include increased redness or inflammation. If these effects occur, discontinue the medication and call your veterinarian. If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately.
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Ginger is given by mouth and is used off label and over the counter to treat nausea, vomiting, inflammation, and other conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but might include mild stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or gas. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or that have gallbladder disease. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Ginkgo is given by mouth and is used on and off label and over the counter to treat cognitive dysfunction, vascular problems, retinal disease, or breathing problems. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, or skin allergic reactions. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, have a bleeding disorder, or are pregnant or nursing. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Ginseng is given by mouth and is used off label and over the counter to treat a variety of conditions including low energy, heart problems, Addison’s disease, cognitive function, and low immune system. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include diarrhea, restlessness, or increased blood pressure. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, are pregnant or are nursing. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Giving pills to dogs can be a challenge, even for the most experienced veterinarian! The easiest way to give your dog a pill is to hide the pill in food. Some dogs will always find the pill and spit it out, so you may need to administer it directly into your dog's mouth. This handout provides a step-by-step guide to doing this at home.
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Glipizide is given by mouth and is used off label to treat high blood sugar in cats with mild type 2 diabetes. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include temporary vomiting and a lack of appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other sulfonamides, or in pets with trauma, infection, diabetic coma, low blood sugar, or diabetic ketoacidosis. If a negative reaction occurs, please call the veterinary office.
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Glucosamine/chondroitin combination is a nutrient supplement that is given by mouth and is used to treat osteoarthritis and feline lower urinary tract disease. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include gastrointestinal upset. Do no use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Glutamine is given by mouth and is used off label to treat gastrointestinal and pancreatic inflammation. It can be prescription or over the counter. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon and are not well documented in pets. Use cautiously in pets that are pregnant or nursing or have severe liver disease, severe behavior disorders, or seizures. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.