When your dog is experiencing symptoms that are not unlike your own, it can be tempting to reach for your own medication to help your dog out. Before reaching for that bottle, give your veterinarian a call in order to make sure you aren't giving your dog something that could be dangerous to it. Some human medications can be safely used in dogs, while others should be carefully avoided.
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Bonine
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Bonine is one of the brand names of the drug Meclizine. It is an antihistamine that is used to treat motion sickness. While the Food and Drug Administration has not approved this drug for use in animals, it is legal for your veterinarian to prescribe it to your dog.
Bonine Side Effects
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Bonine is generally considered safe for use in dogs. It can cause side effects, however, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Work with your veterinarian before purchasing this medication. Bonine should be avoided if your dog has certain conditions, such as an overactive thyroid or heart disease, and may react with other medications.
Ibuprofen
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Ibuprofen is a common over-the-counter pain reliever that also helps reduce inflammation. It should not be given to dogs, as it can be very toxic to them.
Ibuprofen Side Effects
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Ibuprofen can cause many terrible side effects in dogs including kidney failure, stomach bleeding and death. After receiving a toxic dose of ibuprofen, your dog may become weak and lethargic, vomit, have diarrhea, and display many other negative symptoms. Your dog will need immediate veterinary attention.
Treatment
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If your dog has ingested ibuprofen, your veterinarian will recommend hospitalization with a continuous IV. Activated charcoal may be given if ingestion was recent. Medications such as sucralfate, cimetidine or famotidine will be given to treat any stomach ulcers.
Other Precautions
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While some human medications are readily available over-the-counter and can be safely given to your dog, others can become fatal. It is important to only give your dog medications that have been recommended by your veterinarian, and to follow the veterinarian's dosing instructions exactly.
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