Famotidine for dogs is an anti-ulcer drug used for the treatment and prevention of stomach ulcers and other stomach conditions in dogs.
Stomach ulcers in dogs often occur with bloat, kidney failure, use of steroids and the use of NSAIDS in dogs. Because stomach ulcers can be a potentially serious condition in your pet, treating them is often highly recommended. Famotidine is a drug that is commonly used to treat such stomach ulcers as described.
Overview of Famotidine
Famotidine is an anti-ulcer drug designed to be used for the prevention and treatment of ulcers occurring in the stomach. Famotidine is an H-2 blocker that blocks off H-2 receptors that secrete gastric acids into the stomach. Blocking these receptors will allow time for the ulcers to be healed by not allowing acid to enter the stomach.
Although Famotidine is available over the counter, it should only be used when instructed to do so by a veterinarian.
Uses for Famotidine
The following are the most common reasons Famotidine is used in canines:
- For the treatment of gastric and intestinal ulcers (also used to prevent such ulcers)
- Treating stomach erosions
- For the treatment of stomach inflammation, often caused by kidney failure
- Managing the symptoms of acid reflux disease in dogs
- For the treatment of mast cell tumors in both dogs and cats
Possible Side Effects of Famotidine in Dogs
Using Famotidine in your pet may cause some side effects, although the drug is generally a safe and effective way to treat canine stomach ulcers and inflammation.
Famotidine should never be given to dogs with an allergy or sensitivity to the drug. In animals suffering from liver or kidney disease, this drug should be used with extreme care and caution. In rare instances, Famotidine can interact with other drugs and medications, so it is important to discuss all medicines your pet is taking with the veterinarian prior to using the drug. Ketoconazole and Digoxin are among some of the drugs that can interact with Famotidine.
Famotidine Dosage and Supply Information
Usually, Famotidine can be supplied in 40 mg, 20 mg or 10 mg tablet form. An oral powder is also available, and is supplied at 50 mg. Dosage amounts for your pet will depend on factors such as weight and the condition your pet is suffering from. Dosages should always be discussed beforehand with a veterinarian, and instructions should be closely followed afterwards.
Famotidine is usually administered every 12 to 24 hours in canines, depending on various factors. To prevent relapse from occurring, the entire duration of the treatment given to your pet by your veterinarian should be completed, regardless of whether or not symptoms still remain. Failure to complete the whole treatment may result in symptoms coming back.