Which drug can be given off label to cattle for chronic and neuropathic pain, and can synergize with NSAIDs?

• A. Gabapentin
• B. Hydrocodone
• C. Tramadol
• D. Buprenorphine

Answer: (A)

Gabapentin is recognized for its ability to manage chronic and neuropathic pain in veterinary medicine, particularly in cattle. This medication functions by modulating neurotransmitter release and has a mechanism that aids in the alleviation of pain signals associated with neuropathic conditions. Its effectiveness in off-label use for cattle makes it a valuable option when treating chronic pain scenarios where traditional analgesics may not be sufficient.

Additionally, gabapentin can work synergistically with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The combination of gabapentin with NSAIDs can enhance pain relief through different pathways, providing a more effective pain management strategy for animals suffering from chronic conditions. This attribute demonstrates gabapentin's role in providing multimodal analgesia, which is an essential approach in veterinary pain management.

Other options do not serve the same purpose in the context of cattle or may not have established off-label usage in these animals for chronic neuropathic pain. Thus, gabapentin stands out as the appropriate choice for this question.