New Law to Monitor Gabapentin Prescriptions for Pets in North Carolina

WILMINGTON, N.C. – Pet owners in North Carolina may soon face changes in how Gabapentin, a popular drug for pain relief and seizures in both pets and humans, is prescribed and monitored. Starting March 1, a new state law requires veterinarians to report Gabapentin prescriptions to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

Regulation Details

This comprehensive reporting initiative aims to enhance oversight and monitoring of Gabapentin, which has become a significant player in the nationwide opioid abuse crisis. When veterinarians prescribe Gabapentin, especially in quantities exceeding 48 hours’ worth, they must report this to their state reporting board.

“We have to report to our reporting board whenever we dispense more than 48 hours of gabapentin to a client for at-home use,” explained Dawn McKelvey, an Inventory Specialist at Eastern Carolina Veterinary Hospital.

The Dual Nature of Gabapentin

Gabapentin, while primarily used for veterinary purposes, is also widely prescribed to humans for pain management and seizures. However, it has garnered attention due to its potential for misuse, specifically when combined with opioids, leading to dangerous outcomes.

The new legislation addresses these concerns by ensuring that Gabapentin prescriptions are tracked closely, similar to how opioids are monitored. This regulation aims to prevent illicit trade and misuse, including instances where individuals might seek Gabapentin prescribed for pets for unauthorized personal use.

Challenges for Veterinarians

While the regulation is intended to protect public health and ensure the safety of both human and animal patients, some veterinarians perceive the new requirements as burdensome. Brunswick Forest Veterinary Hospital, for instance, has decided to stop prescribing Gabapentin on March 1, citing the added complexity and potential administrative challenges associated with the new law.

Brunswick Forest Veterinary Hospital issued a statement emphasizing the transition: “Effective March 1, 2025, Brunswick Forest Veterinary Hospital will no longer be able to dispense gabapentin due to changes in state regulations. Please contact us to discuss alternative options…”

Support and Compliance

Not all veterinary practices share this stance. Many practitioners view compliance with the new law as a critical step in safeguarding public and animal health. McKelvey noted that the only significant change for clients will be the requirement to provide their date of birth during administration forms. This step ensures accurate tracking of controlled substances.

“The only change clients will see is providing their date of birth, as the state requires this for tracking controlled substances,” McKelvey stated.

The Impact on Pet Care

At the core of this regulation is the commitment to maintaining pet health and happiness. The new law aims to strike a balance between preventing abuse and ensuring that pets receive the necessary treatment without endangering either humans or the black market.

Pet owners who rely on Gabapentin for their pets’ medical needs are advised to reach out to their veterinarians for alternative treatment plans and to discuss these changes. Many practices are offering options like home delivery and guidance on prescription fulfillment to support their clients through the transition.