Medications for Allergic Reactions in Dogs

Dogs are prone to many allergies from foods, dust, chemicals and other airborne elements. Allergies can cause many reactions, misery and discomfort, such as biting, itching, redness, vomiting, diarrhea and difficulty breathing. Fortunately, veterinarians have medications available for the allergic reactions that may affect the health of your dog. Just be cautious in using these medications on pregnant or nursing animals. Most of these medications may cause drowsiness and should only be administered per the advice of your veterinarian.

  1. Corticosteroids

    • According to Pethealth101.com and IBAH.com, atopica from Novartis, also known by the generic name cyclosporine, is an immunosuppressant drug that prevents your dog's body from overreacting to allergens. Most reactions are caused by the immune system and can be relieved with atopica. This means your dog will not feel discomfort any longer because of an exposure to the allergen that caused the initial symptoms.

      Prednisone also works to treat the symptoms of allergies, a wide range of inflammatory and auto-immune conditions. It reduces redness, itching, swelling and allergic reactions that may affect the eyes.

      Medrol is another prescription steroid for the use of allergies and inflammation as well as many other conditions.

      Most of these prescription corticosteroids come in the form of injection, pill and sprays. Side effects may include vomiting, swelling, difficulty breathing, dizziness and muscle/joint pain. Atopica typically has the least amount of side effects.

    Antihistamines

    • Hydroxyzine HCL is a prescription antihistamine used for hives, itching, rashes and other allergic reactions.

      Diphenhydramine, known as Benadryl, and Chlorpheniramine, known as Chlor-Trimeton, are both common vet-recommended antihistamine medications also used to treat skin allergies. The antihistamines act as inhibitors for the histamines produced in the body that cause allergic reactions.

    Antibiotics

    • Bacterial or yeast skin infections can make the intense itching caused by allergies worse. As a result, your veterinarian may recommend the use of oral antibiotics or anti-yeast medications to treat these infections. Some of the common antibiotics prescribed are Cephalexin, Baytril and Amoxicyllin. Most come in tablet and liquid form. The antibiotics all work to inhibit the growth of bacteria, according to VetInfo.com.