how much famotidine can i give my dog Fast Facts: What Is Famotidine (Pepcid)?
how much famotidine can i give my dog Famotidine, also known by its generic name famotidine hydrochloride or famotidine HCl, is a medication used to treat conditions caused by excessive stomach acid production, such as esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States and is available both as a prescription and over-the-counter medication. Famotidine is often marketed under the brand names Pepcid® and Pepcid AC®.
Brand Names for Famotidine
how much famotidine can i give my dog Famotidine is primarily sold under the brand names Pepcid® and Pepcid AC®, but it is also available in generic forms.
Is Pepcid Routinely Prescribed to Pets?
how much famotidine can i give my dog While Pepcid is commonly used for humans, veterinarians may prescribe it to pets under certain circumstances. However, its use in animals is typically based on specific needs, and pets should only receive the medication under veterinary guidance.
Uses of Famotidine for Dogs
how much famotidine can i give my dog Famotidine is often used in dogs to manage conditions like excessive stomach acid, acid reflux, and ulcers. It works by reducing the production of stomach acid, helping to prevent irritation in the stomach and esophagus.
How Is Famotidine Supplied?
how much famotidine can i give my dog Famotidine is available in several forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid suspension. The form and dosage will depend on the individual’s needs and whether it’s being used for a human or an animal.
Pepcid Dosage for Dogs
how much famotidine can i give my dog The appropriate dosage of Pepcid for dogs will vary depending on their size, health condition, and the veterinarian’s recommendations. It’s essential to follow your vet’s instructions precisely to ensure your dog gets the right amount.
Potential Side Effects of Pepcid
how much famotidine can i give my dog While generally safe for both humans and pets, Famotidine can cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, or gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea. Always monitor your pet after administering the medication and report any unusual symptoms to your veterinarian.
How to Prevent Unintended Pepcid Exposure
how much famotidine can i give my dog To prevent accidental exposure, store Pepcid and all medications out of reach of pets and children. If your pet accidentally ingests Pepcid or another medication, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet hotline immediately.
More Pet Emergency Resources
For more information on pet health, medication safety, and emergency care, be sure to consult trusted resources or speak with your veterinarian directly.
FAQs About Famotidine for Dogs
Is Pepcid safe for dogs? Yes, when prescribed by a veterinarian, Pepcid can be safe for dogs.
How long does it take for Pepcid to work? It usually begins to reduce stomach acid within an hour.
Can I give my dog human Pepcid? Only if prescribed by your vet. Do not administer human medication to pets without professional advice.
Drug Library for Pets
For a comprehensive list of medications commonly used in veterinary medicine, consult your vet or an online drug library dedicated to pet health. Always remember that medication should be used under professional supervision.
Fast Facts: What Is Famotidine (Pepcid)?
What Is Famotidine and How Does It Work?
Famotidine is an anti-ulcer medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as histamine receptor-2 (H-2) antagonists. By targeting H-2 receptors found on the membranes of stomach cells, famotidine helps reduce the secretion of gastric acid. This reduction in acid production provides relief for conditions like ulcers, allowing the affected area to heal. Other medications in this class with similar actions include ranitidine (Zantac®), nizatidine (Axid®), and cimetidine (Tagamet®).
In addition to treating ulcers, famotidine can help alleviate nausea in dogs by affecting the chemoreceptor trigger zone, a part of the brain that controls vomiting. This makes Pepcid (famotidine) a go-to treatment for a variety of gastrointestinal issues in pets, including stomach ulcers, esophagitis, gastric reflux, esophageal reflux, Helicobacter infections, and vomiting.
However, it’s important to note that research suggests famotidine may become less effective when used consistently for more than 14 days. Because of this, veterinarians may recommend administering the medication twice daily for optimal results in cases requiring long-term use.
Brand Names for Famotidine
Famotidine: FDA Approval and Available Formulations
Famotidine is FDA-approved for human use only, meaning that the drug is specifically regulated and approved for human treatment. The human formulations of famotidine include Pepcid® (Merck), Pepcid AC, and several other brand names such as Act, Dyspep HB, Pepzan, Arfam, Pamacid, Peptris, Famotren, Famistine, and Fluxid.
Currently, there are no veterinary-specific formulations of famotidine. However, veterinarians may still prescribe the human versions of the drug for pets, adjusting the dosage as needed based on the pet’s condition. Always consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Is Pepcid Routinely Prescribed to Pets?
Famotidine for Pets: Use Under Veterinary Supervision
While famotidine is not FDA-approved for use in animals, veterinarians are legally allowed to prescribe it as an extra-label drug, meaning it’s used in a way not specifically approved by the FDA. Famotidine is available over-the-counter for humans, but it should only be given to pets under the supervision and guidance of a veterinarian. When used correctly, Pepcid is considered one of the 15 human over-the-counter medications generally regarded as safe for dogs, making it a commonly recommended treatment for certain gastrointestinal issues in pets. Always consult with your vet before administering any medication to ensure it’s the right choice for your pet’s health.
Uses of Famotidine for Dogs
Famotidine: Uses for Humans and Pets
Famotidine, commonly known as Pepcid, serves several important purposes for humans, dogs, cats, and other pets. It’s primarily used to treat and prevent gastric and intestinal ulcers—painful sores or erosions that affect the stomach lining. Additionally, famotidine is often prescribed to manage gastric reflux, also known as acid reflux disease, which occurs when stomach acid moves into the lower part of the esophagus, causing discomfort similar to heartburn. For dogs with megaesophagus, this medication can help reduce injury to the esophagus, making it an effective treatment.
Famotidine is also beneficial for pets with kidney disease or kidney failure, where it can help manage inflammation in the stomach. For dogs with mast cell tumors, which can release large amounts of histamine, famotidine (or related drugs) can help control the symptoms caused by this excess histamine production.
In addition, famotidine is often used to treat nausea in dogs, and is sometimes prescribed to help pets with a decreased appetite. If your dog isn’t eating, click here to learn more about caring for a dog that won’t eat. Famotidine works by blocking histamine, making it useful in combination with other medications, such as steroids or diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), to treat allergic reactions.
This medication plays a key role in managing a variety of stomach issues and conditions that lead to nausea and vomiting in pets. These include inflammatory bowel disease, acute pancreatitis, and infections like canine parvoviral enteritis or Helicobacter. Whether your pet is dealing with digestive discomfort or more complex conditions, famotidine may be a helpful part of their treatment plan, under the guidance of a veterinarian.
How Is Famotidine Supplied?
Famotidine: Available Forms and Dosages
Famotidine is available in both prescription and over-the-counter formulations, offering flexibility in how it’s administered. For oral use, it comes in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg tablets, making it easy to adjust the dosage based on individual needs. Additionally, famotidine is available as an oral powder for suspension, supplied at 50 mg/5 ml, which can be mixed with water for easier administration, especially for pets or those who have difficulty swallowing tablets. For more immediate or severe cases, famotidine is also offered in an injectable form with a concentration of 20 mg/50 mL or 20 mg (2 mg/mL), typically used in a clinical setting under medical supervision. These various formulations ensure that famotidine can be tailored to suit different treatment plans for both humans and pets.
Pepcid Dosage for Dogs
Important Considerations When Using Famotidine for Dogs
Before administering any medication, including Pepcid (famotidine), always consult your veterinarian to ensure it’s appropriate for your pet’s specific condition. It’s crucial to discuss the proper dosage, possible side effects, and other precautions with your vet. If you’re concerned about medication costs, pet insurance may help—click here to learn more about how it can assist with expenses.
The typical famotidine dosage for dogs is 0.25 to 0.5 mg per pound (0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg) every 12 to 24 hours. However, the effectiveness of famotidine may decrease if used for more than 14 consecutive days. For this reason, your veterinarian may recommend twice-daily dosing for certain conditions.
The length of treatment depends on the specific issue being treated, how well your pet responds to the medication, and whether any side effects develop. It’s essential to follow through with the full course of medication, even if your pet seems to feel better, to prevent a relapse. Always store tablets in a cool, dry place away from light, and keep liquid formulations refrigerated as instructed.
By following your veterinarian’s guidance, you can help ensure your pet receives the best possible care and treatment.
Potential Side Effects of Pepcid
What to Do If Your Pet Shows Signs of Medication Overdose or Side Effects
If you’re concerned that your pet may have ingested a toxic dose of famotidine or any medication, contact your veterinarian right away.
It’s important to monitor your pet closely for any signs of an adverse reaction. Be especially watchful for symptoms such as:
Diarrhea
Difficulty breathing
Difficulty walking
Lack of appetite
Lethargy
Pale gums
Vomiting
Keep a close eye on your pet’s behavior, urination, and bowel movements to ensure they are not experiencing any of these concerning symptoms. If you notice any of these signs or suspect an overdose, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet immediately for guidance. Timely intervention is crucial in ensuring your pet’s safety and well-being.
How to Prevent Unintended Pepcid Exposure
Preventing Medication Poisoning in Pets
Curious pets have a knack for getting into things, so it’s always better to take preventive measures to avoid poisoning than to treat it afterward. To keep your pets safe from inadvertently ingesting a dangerous amount of famotidine or other medications, follow these precautions:
Store all medications out of your pet’s reach, preferably in a secure cabinet or drawer.
Be especially cautious with pill bottles and weekly pill organizers. The shape and sound of these containers can resemble toys, tempting pets to chew or play with them.
Avoid using plastic bags to store pills, as they can be easily chewed through and ingested. When traveling with medications, ensure they are kept in a secure, pet-proof container.
If you carry medications in your purse, make sure it is securely closed, hung up, or placed in an area your pet can’t access.
Remind house guests to keep their belongings and medications out of reach to avoid accidents.
By taking these simple precautions, you can help prevent your pet from accidentally ingesting harmful substances and ensure their safety at home.
More Pet Emergency Resources
What to Do If Your Pet Ingests Pepcid
If your pet ingests Pepcid (famotidine) and you’re unable to reach your veterinarian, your next step is to contact the nearest emergency veterinary clinic. Alternatively, you can call a pet poison control hotline for guidance. The two most widely used hotlines are:
Pet Poison Helpline
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
These services are available 24/7 and can provide expert advice on how to handle the situation, ensuring your pet gets the help they need as quickly as possible.
FAQs About Famotidine for Dogs
Frequently Asked Questions About Famotidine for Pets
What should I do if I miss giving a dose of famotidine? If you miss a dose of famotidine for your dog, administer the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if the next dose is due soon, skip the missed dose and just give the next scheduled dose. Never double the dose to make up for the missed one.
What is the most important thing I should know about famotidine? Famotidine, known by the brand name Pepcid, belongs to a class of drugs called H2 blockers. These drugs, which also include cimetidine (Tagamet) and ranitidine (Zantac), work by reducing stomach acid production. Famotidine is generally a safe medication for pets, and overdoses are uncommon. It’s frequently prescribed for dogs, cats, and other animals.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving famotidine to my pet? Before giving famotidine to your pet, talk to your vet about the underlying issue you’re trying to treat. For example, if your dog isn’t eating, discuss possible causes and formulate a treatment plan. Pay attention to other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or blood in vomit or stool.
Are there alternatives to famotidine? Yes, alternatives like omeprazole (Prilosec®) may offer stronger gastric acid suppression. Depending on your dog’s symptoms, medications like Cerenia may be recommended for treating vomiting.
Can you buy famotidine over-the-counter? Yes, famotidine is available over-the-counter in various dosages, with 10 mg being the most common.
What are contraindications to giving famotidine? Famotidine should be used with caution in pets with kidney or liver disease because it is metabolized by these organs, and toxicity is possible. In some cases, a lower dose or less frequent dosing may be recommended.
Does famotidine need to be given with food? Famotidine is most effective when given on an empty stomach, so it’s best not to give it with food.
What drugs interact with famotidine? Famotidine has minimal drug interactions, but it can affect the absorption of certain medications due to changes in gastric pH. Iron supplements, antifungal drugs like itraconazole, ketoconazole, and fluconazole, and cephalosporin antibiotics such as cephalexin should be given two hours before or after famotidine. Additionally, some antacids can reduce famotidine’s effectiveness.
What is the difference between famotidine (Pepcid) and ranitidine (Zantac)? Both famotidine and ranitidine belong to the same class of drugs, but famotidine is generally more effective at reducing stomach acid production. Famotidine is typically given once or twice a day, while ranitidine is given two to three times a day. Additionally, ranitidine can affect gastric motility and liver enzymes, while famotidine does not.
Is Pepcid AC the same as Pepcid? Both Pepcid and Pepcid AC contain the same active ingredient, famotidine, but Pepcid AC is a lower-strength, over-the-counter version, while Pepcid is the prescription-strength option.
What is Pepcid Complete? Pepcid Complete® is a chewable tablet that combines famotidine with an antacid to provide faster relief for heartburn symptoms. The antacid acts quickly, while the famotidine takes longer to work, providing more sustained relief.
When is the best time to give famotidine to my dog? The ideal time to give famotidine is in the morning, before
