prilosec for dogs Overview of Omeprazole (Prilosec®) for Dogs and Cats
Omeprazole, commonly known by the brand name Prilosec®, is used to treat and prevent stomach (gastric) and intestinal ulcers in dogs and cats. As a proton pump inhibitor, omeprazole is among the latest class of drugs designed for treating ulcers and heartburn (acid reflux). It works by inhibiting the movement of hydrogen ions, a key component of stomach acid, thus blocking acid secretion.
This reduction in stomach acidity helps create a more favorable environment for ulcer healing. Omeprazole’s effects last for about 24 hours. As a prescription medication, omeprazole can only be obtained through a veterinarian or with a veterinarian’s prescription.This drug is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in dogs and cats. However, veterinarians can legally prescribe it as an extra-label drug, meaning it is used in a manner not specified by the FDA’s approval but
deemed appropriate by the veterinarian based on their clinical judgment.
Brand Names and Other Names of Omeprazole
Contents
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This drug is registered for use in humans and horses only. The human formulations include Prilosec® in the United States and Losec® in Canada (Astra-Merck). For veterinary use, the formulations are Gastrogard® and Ulcergard®.
Uses of Omeprazole for Dogs and Cats
Omeprazole is used for the treatment and prevention of stomach (gastric) and intestinal ulcers. It aids in healing ulcers and erosions, which are shallow depressions in the stomach lining. Additionally, omeprazole can be beneficial for managing ulcers caused by ulcerogenic drugs, such as aspirin. It is also used to treat acid reflux disease, helping to reduce injury to the esophagus from the upward movement of stomach acid.
Uses of Omeprazole for Dogs and Cats
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Omeprazole is employed in the treatment and prevention of stomach (gastric) and intestinal ulcers. It supports the healing of ulcers and erosions, which are shallow depressions in the stomach lining. Additionally, omeprazole can be useful for treating ulcers caused by ulcerogenic drugs like aspirin. It also helps manage acid reflux disease by reducing damage to the esophagus from the upward movement of stomach acid.
Precautions and Side Effects
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While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, omeprazole can cause side effects in some animals. It should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug and must be used with caution in those with liver disease. Omeprazole may interact with other medications, so consult your veterinarian to check for potential interactions with drugs such as diazepam, cyclosporine, digoxin, rifampin, ketoconazole, and ampicillin.
Although adverse reactions are uncommon when dosages are followed as recommended, some animals may experience nausea, vomiting, flatulence, diarrhea, or loose stools. Very rarely, omeprazole has been associated with urinary tract infections and nervous system change
How Sucralfate Is Supplied
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Omeprazole is available in 10 and 20 mg capsules and as an oral suspension in a concentration of 2 mg/ml. It is also offered as an oral paste, with each syringe containing 2.28 grams of the drug.
Dosing Information of Sucralfate for Dogs and Cats
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Medication Administration Guidelines
Never administer medication without first consulting your veterinarian. If you’re worried about medication costs, consider looking into pet insurance options, which may offer financial assistance.
For most pets, the typical dose of medication ranges from 1/4 to 1 gram. Small dogs and cats usually receive 1/4 to 1/2 gram every six to eight hours, while medium to large dogs typically get 1/2 to 1 gram at the same intervals.
It’s best to give the medication on an empty stomach—either one hour before or two hours after a meal. Sucralfate, which is easily dissolved in water, can be administered orally by dissolving the tablet in a syringe with water and mixing thoroughly.
The length of the treatment will depend on the condition being treated, your pet’s response, and any potential side effects. Always complete the full course of medication as prescribed by your veterinarian, even if your pet seems to improve, to avoid relapse or resistance.
