Side Effects of Reglan for Dogs

Reglan, or metaclopramide, is an anti-emetic drug used to control vomiting and gastro-intestinal problems in dogs and cats. Although the FDA has only approved Reglan for use in humans, veterinarians can legally prescribe it for dogs. Side effects from Reglan are uncommon, but may include a change in behavior, constipation and other physical symptoms. Since Reglan may interact negatively with certain medications, disclose all medications that your dog is taking with your veterinarian. Also, Reglan may cause undesirable side effects in dogs with certain conditions.

  1. Physical

    • Some side effects of Reglan include constipation, drowsiness, dizziness or disorientation. If these symptoms are chronic or seem extreme contact your veterinarian. She may be able to prescribe an alternative drug to counteract your dog's nausea. While rare, some dogs may experience hyperactivity from Reglan. According to Dr. Wendy C. Brooks, DVM, DipABVP, Educational Director of VeterinaryPartner.com, Benedryl can help an animal who is experiencing hyperactivity. Consult your veterinarian for the appropriate dose.

    Seizures

    • Dogs who are prone to seizures or have epilepsy should not be given Reglan to control their nausea. The metoclopramide in Reglan crosses the blood brain barrier, affecting the brain and the central nervous system. According to Dr. Barbara Forney VMD of Wedgewood Pharmacy, Reglan lowers the seizure threshold, putting a dog with epilepsy at risk for more seizures.

    Neurotoxicity

    • According to Dr. Forney, dogs may experience neurotoxicity at therapeutic levels. She recommends discontinuing use at the the first signs of trouble with the central nervous system. Consult your veterinarian if your dog exhibits signs of movement disorders such as involuntary twisting movements of the legs, face and eyes. Sometimes a dog will have a rigid posture as well.

    Allergy

    • Some dogs may experience an allergy to Reglan. Symptoms of an allergy may range from sudden diarrhea and vomiting to anaphylactic shock where swelling of the face occurs and your dog may have trouble breathing. At the first sign of an allergy to Reglan, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately.

    Interactions

    • Reglan may interactive negatively with certain medications. Inform your veterinarian of the medications you are currently giving your dog. The Mar Vista Animal Medical Center recommends avoiding the use of Reglan with phenothiazine tranquilizers if your dog suffers from seizures. Narcotic analgesics and Propantheline bromide will lower the effectiveness of Reglan.

    Precautions

    • Reglan may produce negative side effects in dogs with certain conditions. Reglan should not be prescribed for pregnant or nursing dogs because it can pass through the placenta and milk, causing harm to unborn or nursing puppies. Metaclopramide in Reglan should also be avoided in dogs who suffer from adrenal tumors since it can induce high blood pressure. Finally, if you suspect or know that your dog has a stomach obstruction, do not use Reglan. Metaclopramide's stimulating effects on the stomach could be damaging.