Pharmacokinetics and sedative effects of single-dose oral gabapentin in cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus).

Abstract

Objective: To assess the pharmacokinetics and sedative effects of a single administration of oral gabapentin in African cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) at 2 different dosages.

Methods: Adult cheetahs (n = 16) located at 3 different zoological institutions were prospectively enrolled to receive single doses of gabapentin administered at 2 different dosages (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg). Venipuncture was performed under behavioral restraint at predetermined time points over a 24-hour period using a sparse sampling model. Plasma concentrations of gabapentin were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. A modified domestic felid sedation scoring system was used to assess animals at each time point by 3 masked scorers, and sedation scores were compared between time points.

Results: Mean ± SE maximal plasma concentrations were 24.0 ± 12.8 μg/mL and 31.4 ± 8.57 μg/mL for the 10- and 20-mg/kg dosages, respectively. For both dosages, concentrations remained elevated at the final collection time point of 24 hours (2.39 ± 1.97 and 3.93 ± 3.09 μg/mL for 10 and 20 mg/kg, respectively). Mild sedation was achieved for both doses up to 24 hours postadministration, with no significant differences between dosages.

Conclusions: Gabapentin was well absorbed following oral administration, and concentrations remained elevated 24 hours postadministration. Gabapentin produces mild sedation at 10 or 20 mg/kg for up to 24 hours.

Clinical relevance: Gabapentin given to cheetahs at these dosages is a useful tool for improving patient welfare due to its mild sedative effects over a clinically relevant time period.