Dog Ate Pepcid Complete

Famotidine, also known by the brand name Pepcid, is a drug that can be given to dog to treat a variety of gastrointestinal conditions. It works by reducing the production of stomach acid in dogs, which can help treat stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and gastritis.

Although it is not FDA approved for veterinary use, it can be safely prescribed by veterinarians. You must always follow your veterinarian’s guidelines when giving your dog any kind of medication.

You can easily order famotidine online from Chewy’s pharmacy with your vet’s prescription. Here’s what you should know about the uses, dosage, and side effects of famotidine for dogs.

Famotidine is mainly used to treat gastrointestinal ulcers in dogs. The drug works by binding to receptors in the stomach lining, which results in reduced production of stomach acid.

Ulcers form when stomach acid or infections, commonly from H. pylori bacteria, damage the stomach or intestines. These ulcers can cause bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, which can become very dangerous.

Reducing stomach acid production allows for these ulcers to heal more easily and can even prevent ulcers from forming.

The ability of famotidine to reduce stomach acid production is also helpful in the treatment of acid reflux, heartburn, esophagitis, and gastritis. It may also be given to dogs who suffer from renal failure to prevent the formation of ulcers.

The following is a guideline for typical use of this drug in dogs and must not replace your vet’s advice for your individual pet.

The usual dosage of famotidine for dogs is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg per pound of body weight given twice a day. Some forms of the drug are sold as over-the-counter medication, but you should not give it to your dog without veterinary approval.

Pills usually come in a strength of 10 mg, though they also come in amounts of 20 mg. You should continue to treat your dog with the medication until your veterinarian tells you to stop treatment.

If your dog has ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria, your dog will also likely be prescribed antibiotics.

If you suspect or know you pet has had an overdose, it could be fatal so please contact your veterinarian, an emergency vet clinic, or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 213-6680 immediately.

Is Pepcid AC the same as Pepcid?

Both Pepcid and Pepcid AC are composed of the same active ingredient (famotidine). Pepcid AC refers to the over-the-counter, lower-strength version, while Pepcid often refers to the prescription strength versions.

Pepcid Complete® is a chewable tablet that consists of famotidine combined with an antacid. The antacid component provides faster relief (minutes) for symptoms of heartburn, while the famotidine takes longer (peak effect 2 hours).

What are the bad side effects of Pepcid?

Side effects of Pepcid are not common, but may include:

  • constipation,
  • diarrhea,
  • fatigue,
  • dizziness,
  • weakness,
  • mood changes,
  • headache,
  • insomnia,
  • On April 1, 2020, the FDA requested that all forms of ranitidine (Zantac, generic versions), including prescription and over-the-counter products, be removed from the market. They may contain unacceptable levels of a potential cancer-causing substance known as NDMA, or N-Nitrosodimethylamine.

    What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving famotidine to my pet?

    You should discuss the underlying issue with your veterinarian before giving your pet any medication. For example, if your dog is not eating, you should discuss potential causes and create a plan of action. It’s important to look for additional symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, blood in the vomit or stool, and any other abnormalities.

    Famotidine belongs to a class of medications called “H2 blockers.” Other drugs in this class include cimetidine and ranitidine, which can also be used in dogs. Alternative drugs such as omeprazole, commonly known as Prilosec®, may have superior gastric acid suppression. Depending on your dog’s clinical symptoms, alternatives like cerenia may be recommended to treat vomiting.

    Yes, you can buy famotidine over-the-counter in some sizes (10 mg is the most common).