Piriton is a medicine designed and formulated for use in humans and specified to treat allergic reactions. This medicine is classified as a sedative antihistamine, meaning that it combines the effects of a sedative and the histamine reduction qualities of an anti-allergy drug. Because the medicine is not formulated or approved for use in dogs or other pets, it is considered somewhat unorthodox for a vet to prescribe it. However, Piriton can be effective at reducing allergic reactions in dogs, particularly those that are related to atopy, or allergies to particulate matter in the air. Read on for some of the most common side effects of Piriton that you should be aware of whenever your pet begins a treatment program based around this medicine.
Nausea and Vomiting
Many dogs experience a gastric response to Piriton that results in nausea of some kind. This may in turn result in a loss of appetite, a change in general eating habits or in more severe cases, in an inability to keep down food or the medicine itself. Watch out for signs of nausea in your pet, particularly if he begins to vomit regularly.
Dry Mouth
Although it can be difficult to determine whether your pet is experiencing dry mouth, as you cannot experience his sensations yourself, you can nonetheless tell if his body is not producing adequate saliva by his actions. You may notice that your pet searches for water more frequently than normal, that his overall water intake increases or that he appears to open and close his mouth and smack his lips in an unusual way.
Constipation or Diarrhea
The presence of Piriton your pet's body can result in a number of different side effects that may affect his bowel movements. Because each animal and case is slightly different, it can be difficult to predict exactly what will happen in these cases. Generally, however, dogs that are experiencing a change in bowels as a result of taking Piriton will develop problems related to constipation. Look for smaller stools, your pet straining to evacuate his bowels without much success, and related secondary symptoms. Diarrhea may also be a symptom in other cases.
Changes in Behavior
Your pet may develop certain changes in his behavior as a result of taking Piriton. These are most commonly confined to his sleep habits; it's not uncommon for dogs on this drug to have a difficult time sleeping through the night. You can also find that your pet may become more aggressive, more lethargic or may experience other changes in behavior.
Piriton is a potentially harmful drug if combined with certain other medicines. For this reason, it's important that you communicate with the vet before you start giving your pet this medicine. Ask your vet for any other recommendations and questions that you may have.