Antacids are used to address symptoms associated with heartburn, acid reflux, and other inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases. Because of the numerous antacid brands available over-the-counter, these medications have an extensive list of potential adverse effects, drug interactions, and other considerations.
Veterinarians may prescribe antacids for dogs or encourage pet parents to give their pets tiny dosages of antacids developed for human usage. The dosage, efficacy, and adverse effects of antacids are determined by the antacid’s mineral components and the existence of pre-existing conditions.
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Can you give a dog an antacid?
First, it is preferable to consult with your veterinarian to determine what is causing your dog’s upset stomach. Only then can a successful treatment strategy be devised.
Chewable antacids, which people use to treat heartburn, are ineffective in dogs because they aren’t strong enough to counteract acidity and don’t last long.
Another alternative is omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) available over the counter as Prilosec OTC. It decreases stomach acid and is the greatest option for an ulcer, but it has adverse effects. It should only be used if your veterinarian recommends it.
Another over-the-counter option is the H2 antagonist class of medicines, which inhibit histamine type 2 receptors from reducing stomach acid. Famotidine (Pepcid AC), ranitidine (Zantac), and cimetidine are common brand names (Tagamet HB). However, in dogs, these drugs are not as successful as PPIs.
What dogs consume, their meal pattern and parasite and bacterial illnesses are more likely to cause stomach discomfort than heartburn and ulcers. As a result, it’s essential to have your veterinarian diagnose the source of your dog’s stomach distress and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Active ingredients in antacids for dogs
The active components differ according to the brand. For example, mineral components found in antacids include:
- Carbonate of calcium
- Bicarbonate of soda
- Hydroxide of aluminum
- Magnesium hydroxide
Some antacid formulations are toxic to dogs with liver or renal disease. And side effects like costipation or diarhhea may occur.
Is it okay to give antacids to dogs?
Or are there any unintended consequences?
The most prevalent adverse effects are constipation and diarrhea. Serious side effects are uncommon and are mainly connected with long-term usage of antacids. An antacid overdose might cause electrolyte imbalance and irregular pulse.
Kidney damage is a possible side effect of long-term use of aluminum or calcium-containing antacids.
Blood pH imbalance is more likely in dogs with kidney illness treated with antacids high in sodium and calcium.
What antacid can I give my dog?
Veterinarians may prescribe antacids for dogs or encourage pet parents to give their pets tiny dosages of antacids developed for human usage. The dosage, efficacy, and adverse effects of antacids are determined by the antacid’s mineral components and the existence of pre-existing conditions.
Antacids, whether pill or liquid, are frequently disliked by dogs. It may be challenging to administer the drug. If your dog vomits or refuses to take it, consult your veterinarian.
Best antacid for dogs
Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are regularly used in people and can be used safely in most dogs. Some may be used in dogs with sensitive stomachs or vomiting.
In contrast, others may be used to treat dogs with allergies that exhibit symptoms such as itching. However, it is always advisable to consult with your family veterinarian before administering any medication to your dog. As a result, the list below will only offer you a general indication of what to expect.
Pepcid for dogs
Pepcid® is a brand name for famotidine, primarily used to treat gastrointestinal ulcers in dogs. The medicine works by attaching to receptors in the stomach lining, resulting in less acid production.
Ulcers develop when stomach acid or infections, most usually caused by the H. pylori bacterium, cause damage to the stomach or intestines. These ulcers can induce gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be extremely severe.
Reduced stomach acid production allows ulcers to heal more quickly and can even prevent ulcers from occurring.
Famotidine’s capacity to decrease stomach acid production is also beneficial in treating acid reflux, heartburn, esophagitis, and gastritis. It can also be administered to dogs suffering from renal failure to avoid ulcer formation.
Maalox for dogs
Maalox is an antacid that relieves heartburn, stomach cramps, nausea, and indigestion.
Do you intend to use it to treat your dog’s upset stomach or in case you need an antacid for dogs throwing up?
The problem is that this stomach acid reducer contains a cocktail of ingredients that can be harmful to pets. It could be especially risky for animals who already have a renal or cardiac disease. Rolaids are safe for dogs.
The active components (calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and sometimes simethicone) are not harmful when used in reasonable amounts.
However, don’t give your dog the Ultra Strength versions. To reduce the potential side effects, stick to regular Rolaids.
While most antacids are not hazardous to animals, too much of any medicine (even Rolaids) can be dangerous to your dog.
Pepto Bismol for dogs
Pepto Bismol is typically safe for dogs, but don’t give it to your pup without first consulting your veterinarian. Never give your dog human over-the-counter (OTC) drugs without first consulting your veterinarian. Your veterinarian is aware of your dog’s medical issues and health history, allowing them to assess what is and isn’t safe for your specific pet.
Some veterinarians are hesitant to recommend Pepto Bismol since the medication’s salicylates may induce gastrointestinal bleeding in some dogs. Furthermore, the bismuth in the drug often turns dog excrement black, making it difficult to detect any blood in a dog’s stool – an indication of a stomach hemorrhage.
Mylanta for dogs
This medication, which is very similar to Maalox, is generally safe to give to dogs.
Mylanta is relatively safe for dogs in the United States. The active components (mentioned below) are rarely associated with adverse effects:
- Hydroxide of aluminium
- Magnesium hydroxide
- Carbonate of calcium
- Simethicone (anti-gas)
The product, however, varies per country. In Australia, for example, Mylanta includes xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
The inclusion of xylitol is confirmed in the manufacturer’s Australian FAQ area.
Take precautions. Before using, consult with your veterinarian.
They can best advise you on a dose by taking your dog’s breed, age, weight, and overall health into account. This should be done regardless of the type of Mylanta you have on hand.
Using cerenia for dogs
Cerenia is the first FDA-approved drug for dogs suffering from nausea and vomiting. Furthermore, this medicine has the power to prevent symptoms from occurring in the first place.
Cerenia can be recommended for a number of unsettled stomach symptoms, the most common of which being motion sickness. When riding in a car, many dogs, one in every five, experience motion sickness. As a result, dog owners are more likely to leave their pets at home rather than taking them along for the voyage. There would be no motion sickness if your veterinarian prescribed Cerenia.
Thanks for the blog graphics: Canva.com
Thanks for the blog graphics: Canva.com
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