Does your dog have some sort of tummy discomfort? Is that why you’re wondering if Pepcid AC can be given to canines?
Here’s the deal:
Vets do prescribe Pepcid for upset stomach and gastric reflux, but using Famotidine (the active ingredient) is the wrong approach for any dog with an undiagnosed medical condition.
Is Pepcid Routinely Prescribed to Pets?
This drug is not FDA approved for use in animals, but it is legally prescribed by veterinarians as an extra-label drug. Famotidine is available over-the-counter, but should not be administered unless under the supervision and guidance of a veterinarian. Pepcid is one of 15 human over-the-counter drugs considered safe for dogs.
Famotidine has a number of purposes for humans, dogs, cats, and other pets:
Famotidine is available in both prescription and over-the-counter formulations.
Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian. Make sure to discuss proper dosage and other precautions with your veterinarian before using Pepcid for dogs. The typical dose of famotidine administered is 0.25 to 0.5 mg per pound (0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg) every 12 to 24 hours. There is a diminished effect when given for more than 14 consecutive days. For this reason, twice daily dosing may be recommended.
The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication, and the development of any adverse side effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, complete the entire treatment plan to avoid a sudden relapse.
Tablets should be stored away from light and at room temperature. Liquid formulations should be refrigerated.
Call your vet if you are concerned about your pet ingesting a toxic dose of medication and if you observe any of the following side effects:
Make sure to monitor your pet closely and observe their behavior, urination, and bowel movements to ensure they are not suffering from any of these symptoms. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you believe your pet has ingested a potentially-toxic dose of famotidine.
How Does Pepcid Help Dogs with an Upset Stomach?
This medication works well for dogs with stomach and duodenal ulcers whether developed as a side effect from steroids or non-steroidal ant inflammatory drugs, a secondary complication from conditions such as acute kidney failure or mast cell tumors, or even stress. It can also be prescribed for gastritis, esophagitis, acid reflux disease and Helicopbacter infection. Preventively, Pepcid may be prescribed to reduce injury to the esophagus due to being exposed to excessive acid as in chronic vomiting, megaesophagus or from an overdose of aspirin.
Pepcid AC along with Zantac, Axid and Tagamet belongs to a group of anti-ulcer medications known as histamine H2 receptor antagonists which prevent the stomach from producing acid. Acid production in the stomach is controlled by gastrin, acetylcholine and histamine. As their name implies, the above medications work by blocking the histamine H2 receptors responsible for the production of acid.
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In a dog with ulcers, these medications are capable of treating them while preventing future ulcers from forming. The medications in this category work all in the same way, what mainly differentiates one from another is their potency. Pepcid may often be prescribed along with other gastrointestinal protectants such as sucralfate to promote the healing of ulcers. It may also often be prescribed to prevent the formation of ulcers in dogs who must take steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Table of Contents:
Famotidine, also known as famotidine hydrochloride or famotidine HCl, is the generic name for a medication used to treat excessive stomach acid production, esophagitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is currently one of the most commonly-prescribed drugs in the United States and is available as both a prescription drug and over-the counter. It is typically known by the brand names “Pepcid®” and “Pepcid AC®.”
FAQ
How much famotidine can I give my 10 lb dog?
How much Pepcid can you give a small dog?
How much Pepcid can I give my dog a day?
Can I give my dog 20 mg Pepcid?
The typical dose of famotidine administered is 0.25 to 0.5 mg per pound (0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg) every 12 to 24 hours. There is a diminished effect when given for more than 14 consecutive days. For this reason, twice daily dosing may be recommended.