Pepcid® is the brand name form of famotidine, an antihistamine that treats stomach ulcers and other chronic gastrointestinal conditions. Although formulated for human use, Pepcid® is commonly recommended by veterinarians to treat gastrointestinal symptoms associated with excess stomach acid. Read on to learn the dosage, efficacy, ingredients, and side effects of Pepcid® for dogs.
Famotidine, also known by the brand name Pepcid, is a drug that can be given to dog to treat a variety of gastrointestinal conditions. It works by reducing the production of stomach acid in dogs, which can help treat stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and gastritis. Although it is not FDA approved for veterinary use, it can be safely prescribed by veterinarians. You must always follow your veterinarian’s guidelines when giving your dog any kind of medication.
Description
Famotidine (brand name: Pepcid®, Apo-Famotidine®) is an H2-receptor antagonist that is used to reduce stomach acid production for conditions such as gastrointestinal ulcers, inflammation of the stomach due to kidney disease or stress, inflammation of the esophagus, or for acid reflux. Its use in cats, dogs, and small mammals to treat ulcers is ‘off label’ or ‘extra label’. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
Uses Of Famotidine For Dogs
Famotidine is mainly used to treat gastrointestinal ulcers in dogs. The drug works by binding to receptors in the stomach lining, which results in reduced production of stomach acid. Ulcers form when stomach acid or infections, commonly from H. pylori bacteria, damage the stomach or intestines. These ulcers can cause bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, which can become very dangerous.
Reducing stomach acid production allows for these ulcers to heal more easily and can even prevent ulcers from forming. The ability of famotidine to reduce stomach acid production is also helpful in the treatment of acid reflux, heartburn, esophagitis, and gastritis. It may also be given to dogs who suffer from renal failure to prevent the formation of ulcers.
Dosage Of Famotidine For Dogs
The following is a guideline for typical use of this drug in dogs and must not replace your vet’s advice for your individual pet. The usual dosage of famotidine for dogs is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg per pound of body weight given twice a day. Some forms of the drug are sold as over-the-counter medication, but you should not give it to your dog without veterinary approval.
Your vet will be able to tell you the proper dosage for your specific dog. Pills usually come in a strength of 10 mg, though they also come in amounts of 20 mg. You should continue to treat your dog with the medication until your veterinarian tells you to stop treatment. If your dog has ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria, your dog will also likely be prescribed antibiotics.
Potential Side Effects of Famotidine For Dogs
Call your vet if you are concerned about your pet ingesting a toxic dose of medication and if you observe any of the following side effects:
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty walking
- Lack of appetite
- Lethargy
- Pale gums
- Vomiting
Specification
- Drug Name: Famotidine
- Common Name: Pepcid
- Generics: Yes
- Drug Type: H2 Receptor Antagonist
- Used For: Decrease Stomach Acid
- Species: Dogs, Cats
- Administered: Oral
- How Dispensed: Prescription & Non Prescription
- Available Forms: 10mg (Non-RX), 20mg (RX only)
- FDA Approved: Yes
Prices of Famotidine For Dogs
$12.74 – $25.99