Metoclopramide (Reglan), according to PetPlace.com, is an extra-label drug, meaning that it is not approved for use in dogs by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is an anti-emetic (anti-vomiting), medication, and veterinarians legally prescribe it for different types of stomach and digestive problems.
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Reglan
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Reglan works, according to PetPlace.com, by blocking the chemical dopamine in areas of your dog's brain to help stop vomiting. Another function of Reglan is that it helps your dog's stomach and the upper portion of the stomach contract, because without these contractions, the stomach cannot grind eaten food into a substance that can be passed through the intestines.
Uses
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Reglan is prescribed for dogs that have gastro-esophageal reflux, which is an inflammation of the esophagus. Reglan is also used in dogs that have reflux disease because it can reduce acid injury to the esophagus. It can be used, according to PetPlace.com, to control vomiting in dogs that are suffering from metabolic problems such as kidney failure or for dogs that are receiving chemotherapy. It can also be used when a dog's stomach and intestines are not functioning properly.
Side Effects
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Reglan, according to PetPlace.com, is generally safe for most dogs when prescribed by a veterinarian. Reglan can, though, cause side effects in some dogs. Reglan should not be used in dogs with an allergy or hypersensitivity to Reglan. Reglan has been known to cause sedation, mild constipation and nausea. Pay special attention to potential allergic reactions to Reglan, such as facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden diarrhea, shock, pale gums, cold limbs or coma. Notify your veterinarian right away if you notice any of these signs. Reglan can ineract with other medications your pet might be on, such as cimetidine, tetracycline, insulin, diazepam, atropine, or digoxin. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian for information regarding side effects.
Cautions
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Reglan, according to Doctors Foster and Smith, should not be used in dogs that have a stomach blockage, intestinal blockage or stomach bleeding. Reglan can cause seizures, so it should not be used in dogs with a history of seizure activity. Take caution when giving Reglan to pregnant or nursing dogs because this drug can enter the mother's milk. Watch for signs of Reglan overdose, which can be sleepiness, staggering, agitation, seizures, vomiting and constipation.
Dosages
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If you miss a dose, according to Doctors Foster and Smith, give it as soon as you remember. If you miss giving your dog two doses, do not give two doses together but instead go back to the regular dosing schedule. Reglan comes in 5- and 10-milligram tablets. It also comes in a syrup form. The proper dosage amount is typically 0.1 to 0.2 milligrams per pound of body weight, and it should be given every six to eight hours, orally, intravenously or under the skin (subcutaneously). Your veterinarian might recommend you give Reglan 30 minutes before you feed your dog. How long your dog will be on Reglan will depend on the specific reason your dog is taking the medication, how your dog reacts to Reglan and if your dog develops any side effects. Unless your veterinarian advises you otherwise, do not stop treatment and be sure your dog takes all of the medication, even when your dog begins to feel better.
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