Can I give my dog over-the-counter medications?
You should not give any over-the-counter (OTC) medications without confirming they are safe to use in your dog, for several reasons.
First, since human doses and dog doses are different, you need to know the correct dose to administer.
Second, certain drugs used together can cause dangerous interactions, so your veterinarian should review your dog’s medical record to prevent any predictable adverse events.
Third, many OTC medications are NOT safe for dogs. Do not assume that drugs are safe for your dog just because they can be purchased without a prescription. That assumption can lead to toxic effects.
Antihistamines
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), cetirizine (Zyrtec®), and loratadine (Claritin®) are commonly used antihistamines that relieve allergy symptoms or counteract allergic reactions in humans. Antihistamines are usually safe for dogs but can make some dogs drowsy and others hyperactive. OTC antihistamines may contain other ingredients, such as decongestants, that are not safe for dogs. Read the label carefully to ensure that the product only contains antihistamine. Check with your veterinary healthcare team to make sure that the antihistamine you have is suitable for your dog and that you know the appropriate dose to administer.
Anti-diarrheals/anti-nauseants
Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol®) is commonly kept in medicine cabinets for digestive upset. Your veterinarian may recommend giving your dog this medication and can provide the appropriate dosing. Let your veterinarian know immediately if your dog vomits the bismuth subsalicylate.
Kaopectate® is another anti-diarrheal that may soothe an upset stomach. It is typically safe in dogs when used following the recommendations of your veterinarian. Loperamide (Imodium®) may be a good treatment for diarrhea in certain cases. Your veterinarian will let you know when it is appropriate to use in your dog. Accurate diagnosis of the cause of the diarrhea will allow targeted treatment of the problem.
Famotidine (Pepcid AC®) and cimetidine (Tagamet®)
These medications are used to treat or prevent heartburn in people, and they will affect dogs as well. By decreasing the production of gastrointestinal acids, these medications can make dogs feel better. Your veterinarian may recommend using them intermittently for dietary indiscretions or other conditions, but if your dog’s stomach issues persist, see your veterinarian to reassess your dog’s care.
Steroid sprays, gels, and creams
OTC steroid preparations contain a lower percentage of active ingredients than prescription steroids and are usually safe. Steroids decrease the itchiness of insect bites and hot spots; however, they can delay healing, especially if the wound is infected, and chronic use can have adverse effects. Always ask your veterinarian if topical steroids are appropriate for your dog. If your dog’s wound does not look better after a couple of applications, have it evaluated by your veterinarian.
Topical antibiotic ointment
Neosporin® is a common topical antibiotic used on minor cuts and scrapes in people. If your veterinarian recommends it for your dog, verify that the ointment contains only antibiotics and not steroids, which can delay healing. Make sure to clean your dog’s wound before applying the antibiotic ointment and cover it, so your dog does not lick the ointment off. Some dogs can be sensitive to the ingredients of topical antibiotic ointments, so if you notice any redness, irritation, or other abnormal signs in your dog, notify your veterinarian right away.
Anti-fungal sprays, gels, and creams
Most fungal infections are too complicated to be successfully treated with OTC products; however, your veterinarian may recommend them for your dog. Some fungal infections can be transmitted from pets to humans, so it is important to treat these types of infections quickly and effectively.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide may be used topically to clean a superficial flesh wound, but it has the potential to damage healing tissues. It may also be recommended to be given orally to induce vomiting if your dog has ingested something dangerous (e.g., your medications, rodenticides, toxic plants). This use is generally only recommended if it is impossible to get to your vet for a safer form of vomit induction, as hydrogen peroxide can cause stomach and esophageal inflammation or ulceration, gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), or possibly aspiration pneumonia if it gets into your dog’s lungs. Vomiting may cause more harm than good, so before giving an oral dose of hydrogen peroxide, contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary hospital to determine if it is appropriate. They can recommend the best treatment for your dog.
Artificial tears
If your dog squints or blinks excessively, they may have dry eyes, or their eyes could have a bit of dust or debris in them. Dry eyes are irritating. Your veterinarian may recommend using a lubricating eye drop (artificial tears) to clear the debris. However, if your dog continues to squint or blink, take them to your veterinarian immediately. They may have an eye infection, a scratch on the cornea, or a foreign body that must be removed. If your dog’s eyes look red or swollen, or if you notice a discharge, contact your veterinarian immediately. A quick response will relieve your dog’s discomfort and may prevent permanent vision loss.
