It’s important to understand a medication’s uses and side effects before giving it to your pet. This medication info sheet is meant to give you a good understanding of what Robitussin (dextromethorphan) is used for, how it works, and potential side effects in cats and dogs. Always consult a veterinarian before giving your pet any medication.
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.
Drug Interactions:
Never give your dog Robitussin without the approval of your veterinarian.
Robitussin has not been evaluated for safety during pregnancy or lactation and should be used with caution in either situation.
Use with caution in pets with liver disease or skin allergies (atopy).
Use with caution in patients with chronic coughs or wet coughs.
Should not be used concurrently with Amitraz-containing collars.
Drug Type/Class:
Dextromethorphan increases the cough threshold in the part of the brain that triggers a coughing reflex
This advice is definitely not for all coughing dogs. Heck, it’s probably not even appropriate for the majority of coughing dogs. This (guaifenesin) is a poor choice for dogs with congestive heart failure. It’s a poor choice as monotherapy for respiratory infections. It’s a poor choice as monotherapy for pulmonary allergies without also addressing the inflammatory component of said allergies.
FAQ
Can I give my dog Robitussin for kennel cough?
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.
What human cough syrup is safe for dogs?
Popular brands with dextromethorphan are Robitussin-DM, Benylin and Delsym. You can buy medicines with this drug specifically made for dogs. And dextromethorphan is sometimes used in combination with acetaminophen.
Is Robitussin toxic to dogs?
Maybe.Under specific circumstances, your vet may prescribe your dog a low dose of Robitussin (dextromethorphan) to treat coughing. Human cough medicines, however, often contain compounds that are toxic to dogs, like acetaminophen. Do not attempt to give your dog cough medicine without your vet’s guidance.
Can I give my dog Robitussin DM Max?
Dextromethorphan can be appropriate to treat coughing in dogs, but it is only when used following your veterinarian’s instructions. Just because this medication is available over the counter does not make it safe to give as you wish. It should be given to an animal only under the guidance of a licensed veterinarian.