N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists for controlling pain in dogs

This is a mini review published by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association's Pain Committee. This article provides an assessment of the scientific evidence of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonists for controlling pain in dogs while identifying current knowledge gaps. The pathophysiology of chronic pain related to the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor is reviewed, followed by the clinical application of some drugs in this class in clinical practice, with suggested dosage regimens. N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists are an attractive group of drugs to manage long-standing pain because of the pivotal role of the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor in central sensitisation and upregulation of pain pathways. More studies are needed to support the use of these drugs perioperatively and for treatment of chronic pain. Currently, information on best dosage regimens, safety, efficacy and which painful conditions can be targeted is lacking.