When should you not use antihistamines on your dog?Īntihistamines should also be used with caution in dogs that have known sensitivities to antihistamines or have respiratory diseases such as asthma, liver disease, and seizure disorders. Other possible side effects include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea. Newer generation antihistamines such as cetirizine (Zyrtec® or Reactine®) have less of a sedating effect.Īt higher doses, a paradoxical reaction can occur, which is an unexpected increase in activity or stimulation. This is more commonly noticed with first-generation antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®). The most common side effects of antihistamines in dogs include sedation and drowsiness. What are the side effects of antihistamines in dogs? Hydroxyzine (Vistaril®) dose: The typical dose is 2-4 mg/kg every 8-12 hours. Loratidine (Claritin®) dose: The typical dose is 0.5 mg/kg every 24 hours.Ĭetirizine (Zyrtec® or Reactine®) dose: The typical dose is 1 mg/kg every 24 hours. mg/kg.ĭiphenhydramine (Benadryl®) dose: The typical dose is 2-4 mg/kg every 8-12 hours. Medications are dosed based on milligrams (mg) of antihistamine per patient weight in kilograms, i.e. The typical dosage schedule for antihistamines in dogs is every 8-12 hours, with the exception of cetirizine and loratadine, which are every 24 hours. What is the typical dosage schedule for antihistamines in dogs? These include cost, mode of administration, and side effects (a sedating antihistamine such as diphenhydramine can be administered in the evening instead of in the morning). There is no clear evidence that any one antihistamine works better than another, so other factors can be considered when choosing an allergy medication. Claritin® can be used but is not typically recommended by veterinarians as some forms of Claritin® contain decongestants such as pseudoephedrine which is very toxic to dogs. Cetirizine (Zyrtec® or Reactine®) is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter antihistamines recommended by veterinarians. The most commonly used antihistamines for dogs include:ĭiphenhydramine (Benadryl®) is the most sedating antihistamine on the list. What are the commonly used antihistamines for dogs? ![]() Temaril-P® or Vanectyl-P® are examples of medications that combine prednisone with an antihistamine in one pill. prednisone) can be beneficial as they can reduce the overall dose of corticosteroid that is required. Additionally, the use of antihistamines with corticosteroids (e.g. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you if it is safe to give your dog antihistamines and how to do so properly to avoid serious side effects.Ĭoncurrent use of antihistamines for dogs with popular allergy medications such as Apoquel® and Atopica® are safe with no known interactions. This includes any supplements that your dog is taking as well. If your dog is taking any other medications, it is important to let your veterinarian know before giving them antihistamines. Yes, antihistamines can be combined with other medications for the treatment of allergies in dogs, as long as it is not in addition to another antihistamine. Can you combine antihistamines with other medications? Dogs will typically have redness and itchiness of their skin as their main symptoms.įor type-1 hypersensitivity reactions in dogs that result in facial and ocular swelling and hives, such as a bee or wasp sting or vaccine reaction, antihistamines can be beneficial and are typically recommended by veterinarians. These are all symptoms that are not commonly seen in dogs with allergies. People that suffer from allergies typically have a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing as a result of histamine release. ![]() This is because the mediators of the allergic response in dogs are not completely related to histamines. It should be noted that not all dogs will respond to antihistamines to provide relief from seasonal allergies. There have been studies that suggest the use of antihistamines for dogs with seasonal allergies is beneficial and the low cost and favourable safety profile of antihistamines make them a popular choice for many dog owners and veterinarians. ![]() Histamine is a molecule that is released by the body in response to an allergen. Antihistamines work by blocking histamine receptors. If your dog is suffering from itchiness, redness, or swelling, antihistamines may be able to help. When should antihistamines for dogs be used?Īntihistamines can be used to treat allergies, both seasonal and environmental and allergic reactions.
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