Famotidine (Pepcid) For Dogs: Uses, Dosage, And Side Effects

Famotidine, known as Pepcid or Apo-Famotidine, is a drug that works as an H2 receptor antagonist and is used for treating acid reflux, gastrointestinal ulcers, inflammations of the stomach, and other conditions. It helps reduce the production of acid, causing such problems in humans and dogs.

Famotidine has not been approved by the FDA for use for dogs or other animals, but it is commonly prescribed by veterinarians as an off-label or extra-label drug.  It is considered relatively safe and efficient for resolving gastrointestinal issues in canines.

You can buy Famotidine for dogs online if you have a prescription from a veterinarian, but remember to follow the instructions for the dosage and Famotidine usage for your pup.

Famotidine for dogs – Usage

Usually, veterinarians will prescribe Famotidine for dogs suffering from gastrointestinal ulcers. This drug is very efficient in binding the lining of the stomach, thus reducing the production of the acid in the stomach, causing the damage.

Dogs can develop ulcers in the stomach as a result of the acid produced by the stomach or from a Helicobacter infection. This causes damage to the lining of the stomach or intestines and can lead to mild or severe and life-threatening bleeding.

Famotidine, when administered as prescribed by a vet, can help reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach. Thus it helps reduce the damage to the organs, prevents the development of new ulcers, and allows the existing ulcers to heal.

Famotidine for dogs is also commonly prescribed for dogs suffering from heartburn, acid reflux, gastritis, and esophagitis. It is sometimes used for pups who are suffering from renal failure in order to prevent the development of ulcers.

Famotidine for dogs – Dosage

You should always follow the instructions given by your veterinarian when administering Famotidine to your dog because the dosage and usage will differ in accordance with your dog’s weight, age, condition, and other individual factors.

Even though you may find some forms of Famotidine available over-the-counter, you should always consult with your veterinarian before giving your pup Famotidine or any other medication.

In most cases, Famotidine for dogs is administered in doses of 0.25-0.5mg per pound of the dog’s weight and is given twice a day.

Famotidine for dogs is usually sold in 10mg or 20mg pills or in the form of a liquid suspension. In some cases, it may be injected into your dog by a veterinarian.

You should continue giving your dog Famotidine as per the instructions of your vet and stop only when it is approved by the veterinarian.

If your pup is suffering from ulcers due to a helicobacter infection, it may also be prescribed antibiotics to kill off the bacteria.

Famotidine for dogs – Side effects

Famotidine is considered to be relatively safe for canine use, and the side effects, if any, are usually minimal.

Some of the most common side effects of Famotidine for dogs include:

• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• A loss of appetite
• Drowsiness
• Headache

Famotidine is not recommended for dogs suffering from liver or kidney problems or for pregnant or lactating dogs.

Overdosing with Famotidine for dogs occurs rarely, but if it does happen, the symptoms of the Famotidine overdose can include diarrhea, vomiting, breathing problems, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, and more.

If you suspect that your dog has overdosed or it is displaying one or more of these worrying symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.