Cimetidine for Dogs

Dogs suffering from intestinal ulcers can oftentimes be cured or greatly improved through proper treatment with the drug cimetidine. Cimeditine is a human formulated drug that isn't officially approved for use in animals by the FDA. However, because the drug has shown to be effective in certain veterinary medicine cases as well, it can be legally prescribed by veterinarians in some cases. If your dog suffers from frequent or persistent stomach or gastrointestinal ulcers, talk to your veterinarian about the possibility of using cimeditine to help treat his condition.

Cimetidine Overview

Cimetidine acts as a blocker for the histamine receptor H-2. Activity of this receptor cell has been directly linked with the development of certain types of ulcers in the stomach. By effectively blocking that cell from being able to function as it normally would, cimetidine can reduce your pet's symptoms associated with ulcers. Specifically, the medicine blocks the production of certain types of stomach acid. By effectively limiting the amount of stomach acid that is produced, cimetidine reduces the stress on your dog's stomach.

Cimetidine is available in the brand name formulation called Tagamet. There are also a number of other drugs that serve a very similar function as well. This medicine can also be helpful in reducing certain other types of stomach issues, such as inflammation that comes about as a result of kidney damage or kidney failure.

Using Cimetidine for Your Dog

Cimetidine is available in tablet or liquid form and also as an injectable drug. In most cases, veterinarians will recommend providing it to your pet in a tablet form. This can be easily mixed in with your pet's food or included along with a treat while your pet eats. The exact dosage of the medicine, including how often you should provide it to your dog, how much medicine to give, and more, will be dependent upon your pet's weight, size, condition and prior health history. Consult with your veterinarian for specific dosing instructions for your pet.

Cimetidine can react negatively with certain other drugs that might be present in your pet's system. Therefore, it's important that you inform your vet of any and all other drugs that might be in his system before you begin to provide your pet with cimetidine. Additionally, you should avoid giving your pet this drug if he suffers from liver or kidney damage or failure.

The side effects of cimetidine are typically mild and include:

  • Stomach upset
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy

Occasionally, cimetidine can also cause your pet to suffer from a more serious allergic reaction. In these cases, you may notice your pet having trouble chewing, swallowing, or breathing. You may also find that your pet loses consciousness. In any of these cases, it's crucial that you take your dog to an emergency veterinary medical center as quickly as possible in order to diagnose the reaction and help to stabilize him. For more information about cimetidine, ask your vet.

 

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