Pepcid is the brand name for Famotidine, which is a histamine blocker that heals and prevents stomach and intestine ulcers. Histamines are key components in allergic reactions, as they cause all kinds of things like inflammations, swelling, stomach pain, and diarrhea.
Famotidine leads to decreased acid production in the stomach, which in turn results in the healing of:
- Acid reflux
- Gastric or esophageal reflux
- Stomach reflux
- Internal ulcers (mainly intestinal ulcers and stomach ulcers)
- Parvovirus
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Megaesophagous
- Inflammations
- Gastritis
- Esophagitis
- Heartburn
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
How Should Dogs Take Pepcid?
Despite the fact that Famotidine is widely available as an over-the-counter medicine, you should still talk to your veterinarian first and make sure that it’s safe to give to your dog.
Famotidine should be given to dogs without any food because any food consumed along with Famotidine will make it much less effective.
Famotidine is made available in tablets of 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg. Oral powder Famotidine is also produced.
Follow the directions stated on the Famotidine pack itself for best usage practices, and don’t hesitate to ask a pharmacist or your trusty veterinarian if you need any help following any of the directions.
How Should Pepcid Be Stored?
Famotidine should be stored:
- At room temperature, which is anywhere between 68-77°F (20-25°C)
- Away from any areas that might be subjected to light
- Away from any areas that might be subjected to moisture
- Away from the reach of children and pets
Pepcid Dosage For Dogs
The most recommended dosage of Famotidine for dogs is 0.25-0.5 mg for every pound of your dog’s weight, given 2 times a day, once every 12 hours.
You want to always make sure that you give your dog the 2 daily dosages at constantly separate times, and never give your dog the 2 daily dosages all at once.
Assuming you missed one dose and it’s almost time for the second dose, skip the dose that you missed and just give your dog the second dose, don’t attempt to make up for the missed dose that same day.
Return to your regular schedule of two daily dosages with the required time apart the next day.
Ideally, you should consult with your veterinarian and ask them about the best dose of Famotidine for your dog’s case, as they will be able to best determine exactly how much Famotidine your dog needs and for how much time.
Pepcid Overdose In Dogs
Famotidine overdose in dogs is quite a rare occurrence, but it does happen.
Signs of Famotidine overdose in dogs include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Restlessness
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Dizziness
- Mouth and ear areas becomes increasingly red
- Pale gums
- Noticeable increase or decrease in heart rate
- Collapse
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
If you have any doubts or know for a fact that your dog has overdosed on Famotidine, you should immediately get in contact with your veterinarian or an emergency vet clinic, because Famotidine overdose can kill your dog if left untreated.
Side Effects Of Pepcid In Dogs
Side effects in dogs that take Famotidine within the correct dosages and follow the best practices that are advised are somewhat rare, but they could happen.
The most common of these side effects are:
- Appetite loss
- Drowsiness
- Seizures
- Headaches
- Inability to sleep
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Bad breath
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
If you notice any of these side effects, immediately tell your veterinarian about them so they determine whether you can continue with the course of treatment or if any adjustments are necessary.
When Should Dogs Not Take Pepcid?
It’s best that you do not give your dog Famotidine if they:
- Are allergic to Famotidine
- Take bone marrow suppressing drugs such as Azathioprine
- Are lactating
- Are senior dogs (you might be able to give them Famotidine, although you MUST ask a professional animal care personnel first)
- Are pregnant (because this may affect weight gain)
- Are nursing, as traces of Famotidine can be passed to the baby dog through milk
- Have kidney disease
- Have liver disease
- Have heart disease or heart rhythm abnormalities
- Are currently on any other medications or supplements, most notable of which are Antacids, Metoclopramide, Sucralfate, Digoxin, and Ketoconazole (this is another case where you have to talk with your veterinarian and tell them everything your dog takes at the moment so they determine if they can take Famotidine or not)
