Antihistamines are drugs commonly used in human medicine. It is not strange that, especially people suffering from allergies, resort to its consumption as soon as they notice symptoms, without even consulting a doctor, since many do not even require a prescription. However, antihistamines for dogs should never be administered without veterinary advice, since they are not as effective in these animals, nor are they always the same as for humans.
In this article on our site we talk about the different antihistamines for dogs that exist, the most used brands, the recommended doses and possible side effects.
What are antihistamines for dogs?
Antihistamines have been known for decades, especially for their role in allergies. Their name is due to their effect, since they inhibit the action of histamine, so they are used to control the symptoms it produces. They also serve for cases of anaphylaxis, that is, severe allergic reactions. In addition, in human medicine, they are also used to treat motion sickness, certain vertigo or migraines.
There are many antihistamines that can be classified between first and second generation, the latter being safer and associated with fewer side effects. The problem is that the success they show in human medicine does not correspond to the effect in dogs In them they are not very effective against allergies Therefore, they should only be administered if the veterinarian considers it so. In general, this will prescribe a corticosteroid first and, in cases in which mild itching persists, it is when an antihistamine can be tried. It has been proven that administering antihistamines together with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids improves the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Another use in dogs is gastrointestinal ulcers.
Dog Antihistamine Brands
As we say, it is possible to find many antihistamines on the market, but the ones most used by people are not always the right ones for dogs. Thus, although we think that ebastine for dogs or polaramine for dogs, both commonly used in humans, are good, we must know that they are not the first choice in these animals. On the other hand, loratadine for dogs, a second-generation antihistamine, is good. In addition to this, other second-generation antihistamines, active ingredients and brands that are considered more effective in this species are the following:
- Diphenhydramine or Benadryl
- Hydroxyzine or atarax
- Cetirizine
- Terfenadine
Furthermore, first-generation clemastine or tavegil and the combination of chlorpheniramine and hydroxyzine, and oxatomide among the second-generation antihistamines, have shown medium efficacy. So, if you are wondering if atarax for dogs is good or if you can give cetirizine to dogs, the answer is yes, but always under strict veterinary supervision. As we have indicated previously, you should never medicate your dog without the authorization of the specialist.
Dose of antihistamines for dogs
The dose of antihistamines is not unique, since it will depend, in addition to the weight of each dog, on the type of antihistamine chosen by the veterinarian and the disorder for which this drug is needed. In addition, some are recommended to administer three times a day, that is, every eight hours, others twice a day or every 12 hours and some only once a day. On the other hand, each drug has a range of doses in which its administration is considered safe and only the veterinarian can decide, in each case, what quantity is the most appropriate.
Side Effects of Antihistamines for Dogs
If we give our dog the antihistamine recommended by the veterinarian and follow the recommended doses and administration schedule, it is rare for adverse reactions to occur. Side effects are rare and, if they occur, are usually limited to a picture of drowsiness or gastrointestinal disorders
Other possible side effects include tremors, incoordination, hypersalivation, excessive panting, heart disturbances, or nervousness. Of course, if we notice any of these signs after using an antihistamine, you should contact your vet.
