Polaramine is an antihistamine commonly used in human medicine. Therefore, it is not strange that we find it in the medicine cabinets of many homes. This makes some caregivers think of using it with their dog, which can have negative consequences. Polaramine is a drug that can only be administered to dogs after evaluation by a veterinarian and always following her instructions.
In this article on our site we share all the information about polaramine for dogs, the recommended dose, its most common uses and its possible side effects.
What is polaramine for dogs?
Polaramine is a antihistamine It is made up of dexchlorpheniramine maleateBeing an antihistamine means that it acts on the effects caused by histamine, which are all those linked, above all, to allergies, but also to gastrointestinal ulcers. Antihistamines are also used to treat motion sickness, certain vertigo, or migraines.
Antihistamines form a very large group of drugs and have been used for decades in human medicine with great success. The problem is that they are not as effective in dogs, which is why they are not usually the first option in the treatment of allergies, such as allergic dermatitis to flea bites or DAPP, canine atopy or food allergy or shocks anaphylactics, which are serious allergic reactions.
For more details, don't miss the article in which we talk about Antihistamines for dogs.
What is polaramine used for in dogs?
Some antihistamines can be used in dogs. Although their efficacy is considered medium and they do not have an immediate antipruritic effect, the veterinarian may prescribe them, for example, in case of mild itching or insect bites If it has been It has been observed that they improve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis if they are administered together with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. This effect can reduce the dose of corticosteroids, which are the drugs that are usually used in these allergies.
In atopic dogs, the antihistamines that have shown the most effect are clemastine, the combination of chlorpheniramine and hydroxyzine, or oxatomide. As we can see, in this case the veterinarian could prescribe polaramine, although it is usual that it is combined with other drugs. In addition, it must be taken into account that the success of these drugs is individual, that is, it varies in each dog. Therefore, it is not predictable and several antihistamines may have to be tried to find the one that works for our dog.
Dose of polaramine for dogs
The dosage and the pattern of use is the exclusive competence of the veterinarian and will depend on the clinical picture of the dog and its size. Polaramine, in addition, is marketed in several presentations such as tablets, syrup, injection or ointment. Therefore, the dose is very variable and also depends on how many times we have to administer it each day, since it can be two or three, that is, every twelve or eight hours, respectively. By way of example, the most common dose is 0.4 mg per kg of body weight every eight hours orally.
However, we insist, whether we give the dog polaramine in syrup or in tablets or any other format, it must be the specialist who determines the correct dose.
Contraindications and side effects of Polaramine for dogs
We insist that it is only convenient to use polaramine for dogs if the veterinarian has prescribed it for us. Without the evaluation of a professional, we run the risk that the medication will not have any effect on the dog, which is serious if he is suffering, for example, from anaphylactic shock. Improper treatment can be fatal.
When antihistamines are administered according to the professional's prescription, they are usually very safe, that is, no adverse side effects are counted. On rare occasions, drowsiness, gastrointestinal disorders, incoordination, etc. may appear. There may also be an increase in itching. Of course, any of these signs are a reason to see your vet.
In addition, antihistamines should be used with caution in dogs suffering from liver problems, in certain gastrointestinal disorders, glaucoma, prostatic hyperplasia, seizures or in pregnant bitches.
