Emilie Meyer
Many over-the-counter (OTC) medications for humans can be harmful to dogs, and it is always best to consult a veterinarian before giving your dog any medication. Some common human medications, such as ibuprofen, Advil, and acetaminophen (Tylenol), can be toxic to dogs and cause serious health issues, including stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and even death. However, there are some OTC medications that veterinarians recommend or prescribe for dogs under their guidance, such as antihistamines for allergies, artificial tears for dry eyes, antacids for gastrointestinal issues, and in some cases, buffered aspirin for pain and inflammation. It is important to note that even medications considered safe for dogs should be administered in the correct dosage for the dog's weight and specific needs, as incorrect dosages can be harmful.
Pain Medication for Dogs
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pain Medication Type | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) |
| Examples of NSAIDs | Carprofen, Galliprant, Deracoxib, Meloxicam, Robenacoxib, Gabapentin, Tramadol, Amantadine |
| Administration | Oral or injection |
| Side Effects | Kidney or liver issues, digestive problems, blood-clotting issues, upset stomach |
| Precautions | Consult a veterinarian, do not give human medication, monitor for side effects, perform blood tests |
| Alternative Treatments | Ice, heat, rest, acupuncture, chiropractic manipulation, supplements |
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What You'll Learn
Antihistamines for allergies
Antihistamines can be used to treat allergies in dogs, both seasonal and environmental, as well as allergic reactions. They work by blocking histamine receptors, which are released by the body in response to an allergen. Antihistamines can help with itchiness, redness, and swelling, which are the most common symptoms of allergies in dogs.
It is important to note that not all dogs will respond to antihistamines for seasonal allergies. This is because the mediators of allergic responses in dogs are not always related to histamines. Antihistamines are more likely to be effective in treating allergic reactions such as bee or wasp stings, which can cause facial and ocular swelling and hives.
Antihistamines are available as over-the-counter medications and are generally inexpensive and free of side effects. Some common antihistamines that can be used for dogs include:
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec) - 1/4 to 1/2 mg per pound, twice daily.
- Loratadine (Claritin) - 1/4 mg per pound, once daily.
- Clemastine (Tavist-1, Antihist-1) - 0.02 mg per pound, twice daily.
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) - 1 mg per pound, twice daily. This is the most sedating antihistamine on the list and may be beneficial to aid sleeping.
- Hydroxyzine - 1 mg per pound, twice daily. This is a prescription product.
It is important to consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any antihistamine or other medication, especially if your dog is already taking something else. Some antihistamines may contain artificial sugars such as xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Additionally, while antihistamines are generally safe, they can make some dogs drowsy and others hyperactive. Your veterinarian will be able to advise on the correct dosage and whether antihistamines are suitable for your dog's specific needs.
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Eye drops for dry eyes
Dry eye is a common problem in dogs, causing pain and discomfort. It occurs when the lacrimal gland and the third eyelid gland do not function properly to produce tears. This can lead to corneal ulceration and infection, resulting in serious eye damage and even blindness if left untreated.
There are several options for treating dry eye in dogs, including eye drops, ointments, and surgery. It is important to consult a veterinarian before administering any eye drops to your dog, as some ingredients suitable for humans can be harmful to dogs. For example, redness-relieving drops often contain naphazoline, which can be dangerous when ingested by dogs. Similarly, glaucoma eye drops may contain brimonidine, which is poisonous to dogs.
If your dog is suffering from dry eye, your veterinarian may prescribe medicated eye drops to treat the condition. These can include ingredients such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus, which increase tear production and replace the tear film. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian and those on the bottle for effective treatment.
To apply eye drops to your dog, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after giving the drops.
- Use a warm, wet washcloth to gently clean the area around your dog's eye.
- Cradle your dog's head or have an assistant help you.
- Hold the medicine bottle with your dominant thumb and index finger, and pull down your dog's lower eyelid with your opposite thumb.
- Place the bottle close to the eye without touching it and aim for the center.
- Squeeze the prescribed amount into your dog's eye.
- Your dog will blink a few times, spreading the medicine around the eye.
- Remember to praise your dog and give them a treat afterward!
In addition to medicated eye drops, your veterinarian may recommend over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, such as artificial tears, to help keep your dog's eyes moist and comfortable. However, it's important to note that while generally safe, artificial tears are not useful for all eye conditions, and a veterinarian should evaluate your dog's eye to ensure there is no underlying issue.
If medication proves ineffective, surgery, known as parotid duct transposition, may be considered as a last resort. This procedure redirects a duct that produces saliva up to the eye, replacing tears with saliva to keep the eye moist.
Remember, it is always best to consult a veterinarian before administering any new medication to your dog, including eye drops. They will be able to determine the best treatment plan based on your dog's specific condition and medical history.
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Anti-nausea medication
Nausea in dogs can be caused by dietary indiscretions, such as eating non-edible items, human foods, or raiding the trash, as well as overeating, food gulping, long fasting, or sudden switches in dog food. More severe causes include pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, kidney problems, allergies, cancer, and toxic substance ingestion. Motion sickness and vestibular disease are also common causes of nausea in dogs.
If your dog appears nauseated, it is best to withhold food and treats for a few hours. Most dogs will not eat when their stomach is upset, but some may continue to eat, which can worsen the nausea. It is also important to monitor your dog's water intake, as drinking too much water can make them feel worse. Instead, provide small amounts of water frequently and, if your dog doesn't chew on ice cubes, give them a few to help with hydration. If your dog is vomiting, it is better to have them refrain from eating so that they don't bring the food back up. If your dog seems uncomfortable but has no other symptoms, it is usually safe to monitor the situation to see if it resolves on its own.
In terms of medication, it is always best to consult your veterinarian, who may prescribe anti-nausea medications such as maropitant citrate (Cerenia), which helps to quell the nausea itself, or metoclopramide (Reglan), which normalizes the movement of the intestinal tract. Other drugs may be prescribed to relieve inflammation in the intestinal tract, such as metronidazole, which has antibacterial, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
One over-the-counter option for motion sickness-induced nausea is dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), an antihistamine with a mild sedating effect. However, it is still advisable to consult your veterinarian before administering any medication.
If your dog is undergoing chemotherapy, your veterinarian may dispense anti-nausea or appetite stimulant medications to be given at the first signs of nausea. Ondansetron is one such medication that comes in a dissolvable wafer form, which is useful for pets that are difficult to medicate orally.
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Pain relief
It is important to note that human medications can have unpredictable and toxic effects on dogs, so it is always best to consult a veterinarian before giving your dog any medication.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a common pain relief medication for dogs. NSAIDs help reduce swelling, stiffness, and joint pain and are especially useful for dogs with arthritis or those recovering from surgery. Carprofen (Rimadyl) is an FDA-approved NSAID for dogs that provides effective pain relief and reduced inflammation with proper monitoring of liver function. Galliprant is another NSAID that specifically targets pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. Meloxicam (Metacam®) is another prescription NSAID that is typically safe and effective in helping dogs with pain. However, NSAIDs can have side effects, including kidney and liver problems, and should not be given to dogs with pre-existing conditions affecting these organs.
Veterinarians may also prescribe steroids for pain relief in dogs. Steroids are generally safe and can improve a dog's quality of life, but they may also cause side effects depending on the steroid and dosage.
Other prescription medications for pain relief in dogs include morphine, buprenorphine, codeine, butorphanol, and fentanyl. These medications are typically used for short-term pain relief after surgery or for severe conditions like cancer or trauma.
Some natural supplements can also help relieve pain in dogs. Fish oil, for example, has anti-inflammatory benefits and can be used to treat pain from osteoarthritis, skin disease, kidney disease, and some types of cancer. Turmeric and curcumin supplements may also help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Glucosamine and chondroitin are popular alternative treatments that may help repair and protect cartilage.
Acupuncture is another option for pain management in dogs, helping to treat pain, reduce stress, and manage certain diseases.
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Upset stomachs
An upset stomach is a common issue for dogs, and there are several over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate symptoms. However, it is important to consult your veterinarian before administering any medication to your dog, as they can ensure the correct dosage and advise on any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
One option is to give your dog Famotidine, commonly known by the brand name Pepcid. Pepcid is an antihistamine that works by blocking a histamine receptor in the stomach that produces acid. It is particularly useful when there is concern for stomach ulceration or ingestion of an irritant. Pepcid is best given on an empty stomach, and you should ensure that you are giving the correct dosage for your dog's weight.
Another option is omeprazole, also known as Prilosec or Nexium. This medication inhibits proton pumps in the stomach to decrease stomach acid production and is useful for stomach ulceration or irritation. Omeprazole is only available as a pill and takes three to five days to take full effect. It is important to be aware of potential drug interactions with omeprazole, as it may interfere with the absorption of certain drugs.
Imodium (loperamide) is another over-the-counter medication that can help resolve diarrhea in dogs. It is important to check with your veterinarian before administering Imodium, as it may not be suitable for dogs with certain conditions or taking certain medications. The typical dosage is one 2-milligram pill per 40 pounds of body weight, two to three times a day, for no more than two days.
Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) is technically safe for dogs, but it is not commonly recommended by veterinarians due to the risk of gastric bleeding and the potential to mask any resulting bleeding. If you choose to give your dog Pepto-Bismol, it should be administered one hour before meals using an empty plastic syringe.
In addition to these over-the-counter options, your veterinarian may prescribe medications such as maropitant (Cerenia), ondansetron (Zofran), or dolasetron (Anzemet) to treat vomiting and upset stomach in dogs.
It is important to note that upset stomachs in dogs can be a symptom of a more serious issue, so it is always best to consult your veterinarian before administering any medication.
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Frequently asked questions
Antihistamines are some of the most commonly prescribed OTC allergy medications for dogs. Benadryl is generally safe and well-tolerated in dogs, but can cause drowsiness. The recommended dosage is one milligram per pound, twice per day. However, it is always a good idea to talk to your vet before giving any allergy medications to your dog.
Pepto-Bismol is a common OTC medication for dogs with upset stomachs. It is generally considered safe for dogs, but you should consult your veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen. Kaopectate is another OTC medication that may soothe an upset stomach, but it should only be used following the recommendations of your veterinarian.
Dogs can take pain medications, but you should always check with your vet before giving any human medicines to your dog. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in veterinary medicine, but they can cause serious side effects such as stomach ulcers, liver and kidney failure, and seizures. There are some NSAIDs specifically approved for dogs, such as canine-approved NSAIDs and opioids like tramadol.
