Just like humans, dogs can be susceptible to an upset stomach as well as a number of gastrointestinal issues. In some cases, the same treatments we use for ourselves can be used to help our dogs. For instance, dogs can take Pepcid AC to calm an upset stomach, stop vomiting, or relief diarrhea.
In fact, Pepcid can be given to dogs to treat many different gastrointestinal issues, including stomach ulcers, gastritis, and acid reflux. This is not a treatment that is approved for veterinary use by the FDA, but it is often prescribed by vets for dogs that have stomach issues and digestive problems. It’s safe, effective, and can give your dog fast-acting relief. The question is how much Pepcid should you give your dog (dosage) and the potential side effects to look out for.
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Using Pepcid AC For Dogs
Pepcid AC is a drug called famotidine, and it can be used to treat ulcers in dogs, as well as other stomach conditions. It binds to the receptors inside the lining of the stomach, and helps to reduce stomach acid.
This in turn helps to heal ulcers faster, as well as keep new ulcers from forming, because there is less stomach acid which causes damage to the stomach and intestines. This can also help to treat such conditions as simple heartburn and esophagitis. Some vets recommend Pepcid for dogs that have renal failure, so more ulcers will not form.
Dosage of Pepcid AC For Dogs
You can get Pepcid AC without a prescription, but it is still important to follow your vet’s advice when it comes to the dosage. Generally, the dosage of Pepcid for dogs is 0.25mg to 2mg per pound of weight, twice daily.
There are two options, liquid and pill form. The liquid form is much easier to administer, as it is easier to measure the correct dosage. However, you should always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dosage for your dog which may differ from general recommendations.
Pepcid AC pills come in 10mg and 20mg strengths, so they will have to be cut into smaller pieces. Your vet will be able to tell you exactly how much of this medication to give to your dog. In the case of ulcers that are caused by H. pylori bacteria, your vet may also prescribe antibiotics.
How To Give Liquid Pepcid AC To Dogs
As previously mentioned, if you are giving Pepcid to your dog, the best way to do it is with the liquid form. Sure, it is easier to give them pills, but you can’t always get the correct dosage that way. The best way to give liquid Pepcid to your dog is with a syringe. Draw up the correct dosage, insert the syringe into your dogs mouth, and slowly push on the plunger so the liquid slowly goes down the back of the mouth.
Be sure to slowly apply pressure on the plunger as doing it quickly may cause a lot of the medication to be lost. Keep the medication refrigerated, as this seems to be more pleasing to most dogs. It can also be mixed in with their food, which will help them absorb the medication better.
Side Effects of Pepcid
One of the main reasons why many vets choose to treat stomach problems in dogs with Pepcid AC is that there are few to no side effects. Any side effects are usually very rare, and very minimal, and can include loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhea, drowsiness, and headaches.
One thing to note is that Pepcid can be dangerous for dogs that are suffering from kidney problems, liver problems, and stomach cancer. Also, some dogs are just sensitive to any type of medication. It is also not recommended for dogs that are pregnant or nursing.
Another reason why vets often choose Pepcid is that it doesn’t tend to have any negative interactions when used with other medications. It is rare that there is an overdose of this medication, but it can happen. It’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice your dog vomiting, experiencing diarrhea, having low blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat, or having trouble breathing.
Pepcid AC May Not Always Be the Best Option
In most cases, stomach upset in dogs is temporary, and will go away on its own in a few hours or up to a day or two. In these cases, Pepcid will help to treat those uncomfortable symptoms and help make your dogs feel better.
But, there are times when the cause is something more serious, and it’s best to consult with you veterinarian before giving them any types of medications, including Pepcid. For instance, if your dog doesn’t want to eat or drink, this is a sign that there may be something more serious going on, and Pepcid AC may not be the best option.
If symptoms of gastrointestinal issues go on for longer than two days, or if you notice blood in your dog’s stool or vomit, you should contact your vet immediately!
Be Careful with Famotidine For Dogs
If your dog has a minor stomach upset, it’s usually safe to give them Pepcid AC. However, you should only do so on the recommendation of your vet. If the problem persists, or the symptoms are very serious, you should not administer any treatments yourself. In this scenario, you need to contact your vet right away to seek professional treatment.