Kennel Cough Treatment Robitussin

If your dog is coughing up a storm, you may consider giving him a cough suppressant such as Robitussin. This medicine is only intended to be used for a short time period and should only be given under a veterinarian’s approval. A veterinarian will determine the correct dosage of Robitussin for your dog.

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

The following medications should be used with caution when given with dextromethorphan: CYP2D6 inhibitors, metoclopramide, MAOIs, naloxone, opioids, quinidine, serotonergic agents, or tramadol.

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.

What is dextromethorphan?

Dextromethorphan (brand names: Delsym®, Robitussin®, Balminil®, Benylin ® and many others) is a medication used to treat compulsive behavior. It can also be used as a cough suppressant, although other cough suppressants are typically more effective in cats and dogs.

Its use in cats, dogs, and horses to treat compulsive behavior or cough is ‘off label’ or ‘extra label’. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.

Dextromethorphan is given by mouth in the form of a tablet, gelcap, or liquid. It is also available in other forms, but these are more difficult to administer to pets. It may be given with or without food; however, if your pet vomits when given this medication on an empty stomach, give future doses with food or a treat. Measure liquid forms of this medication carefully. This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

Are there any potential side effects?

Side effects are uncommon, but may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, sleepiness, drooling, or anxiousness. More serious side effects include rapid heartbeat, collapse, muscle tension, incoordination, muscle twitches, seizures, and abnormal eye movements.

This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

FAQ

How much Robitussin can I give my dog for kennel cough?

For coughing: –Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM with dextromethorphan at 10-15 mg/5ml and Guafenisin at 100mg/5ml), for cough. Roughly, 1 teaspoon per 20 pounds for dogs. Note: This is for Robitussin without Codeine.

Is Robitussin OK for dogs?

For dry, non-productive coughing in dogs, Robitussin DM (Dextromethorphan)–(2mg/mL), can be given.

Does Robitussin DM help kennel cough?

You should not give Robitussin to your dog for kennel cough. Kennel cough is a viral infection and does not respond to antibiotics.

What kind of cough syrup can I give my dog for kennel cough?

Mild over-the-counter cough suppressants such as Mucinex cough medicine for children may help keep pets comfortable. Temaril-P can also be used to treat itching and coughing symptoms in dogs.