Diazepam is a drug that affects the central nervous system, causing, above all, a relaxing, sedative and anticonvulsant effect. It is used in human medicine and also in veterinary medicine. That is why on the occasions that we will talk about in this article on our site, it is possible that the veterinarian prescribes diazepam for dogs. And, given the nature of this drug, we can only administer it if this professional has prescribed it for us. Giving diazepam to a dog on our own could be very dangerous.
Keep reading to discover everything about the use of diazepam in dogs, its main side effects and the most appropriate dose. Of course, we insist, it is essential that it be a professional who guides its administration.
What is diazepam?
Diazepam belongs to the group of benzodiazepines, which are drugs that act on the central nervous system. Specifically, it is a depressant of this system. Above all, it achieves a rapid sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant and relaxing effect on the dog. Therefore, it can be used for disorders both physically and psychologically. Diazepam for dogs is found in several formats for administration: oral or injectable. In the latter case, the vet will put it on.
What is diazepam for dogs for?
One of the uses of diazepam in dogs is treatment of psychological disordersThus, diazepam can be given to nervous, stressed, anxious dogs or those that show a phobia. If this is the case with your dog, you should know that, in addition to this drug, it is necessary to implement environmental control measures to achieve full recovery of the dog. This is the scope of action of veterinarians specialized in canine behavior or ethologists. And it is always preferred to establish measures before medicating the dog. Therefore, diazepam is reserved for very specific or serious cases
There are also physical conditions for which diazepam is prescribed, such as seizure disorders or musculoskeletal spasms originating in the central or peripheral nervous system. An example of diazepam for dogs with seizures is epilepsy.
Finally, diazepam can be administered by the veterinarian as part of the pre-anesthetic protocol before surgery or to sedate the dog, for example, when a test needs to be done and handling is not allowed. In this case, it is convenient to take into account the paradoxical reaction that could occur, as we will explain in more detail in the section dedicated to the side effects of this drug.
Whether your dog is very nervous or if he suffers from anxiety, we recommend you consult these articles before giving him a drug like this without the authorization of the veterinarian:
- 5 steps to relax a very nervous dog
- Anxiety in dogs - Symptoms and treatment
Also, we advise you to watch this video. Now, if your dog suffers from any illness, go to the veterinary clinic as soon as possible.
Dog Diazepam Dosage
It is very important that we scrupulously follow the veterinarian's instructions regarding dosage and administration guidelines. The dose will depend, in addition to the weight of the dog, the route of administration of the drug and the pathology to be treated. To get an idea, the intravenous injectable solution to control seizure disorders is administered at a rate of 0.5 mg per kg of weight Of the dog. On the other hand, in the oral administration of diazepam in tablets for dogs, it can occur up to 2, 2 mg per kg
We insist again on the importance of going to the veterinarian so that he or she can indicate the most appropriate dose of diazepam for dogs. An incorrect administration can have very serious consequences.
Contraindications of diazepam for dogs
Regarding its contraindications, it is not recommended to give diazepam to puppies, to older dogs or those with liver, heart or liver problems. renal. It is also not recommended for dogs that are epileptic, debilitated, dehydrated, anemic, in shock, with severe respiratory difficulties or with obesity. Of course, it cannot be given to animals that have previously shown an allergic reaction to diazepam.
In dogs with glaucoma, the veterinarian will have to determine the relevance of the treatment, evaluating the advantages and disadvantages. The same happens in pregnant or lactating females. Likewise, if the dog is taking any drug and the veterinarian does not know it, we must inform it, since an interaction could occur.
Side Effects of Diazepam for Dogs
The diazepam will interfere with the dog's behavior and, consequently, with its learning. Hence, its use in behavior problems is punctual and has to be closely controlled by the veterinarian. In addition, it must be known that the administration of diazepam for a long time can cause dependency or even behavioral reactions equal to those that are to be avoided. For example, the excitability of the dog that is intended to decrease, on the contrary, could be increased. Disinhibition or aggressiveness would also occur. This is known as paradoxical reactions This is a rare effect that, if it occurs, is seen more in small breed dogs. It is another fact that highlights the importance of diazepam only being given in cases in which it has been prescribed by a professional.
In addition, among the side effects of diazepam for dogs are the drop in blood pressure, the alterations heart conditions or thrombosis This happens when diazepam is given too quickly intravenously. Other effects that have been reported are lack of coordination, disorientation or changes in behavior In any case, if we detect any effect on our dog after administering diazepam, we must put it in knowledge of the veterinarian in case it is convenient to modify or stop the treatment.
Finally, an overdose of diazepam can cause depression of the central nervous system, causing confusion and even coma. It can also decrease blood pressure, breathing and heart rate.
