OTC Meds – Are They Safe?

Many dog owners use over-the-counter (OTC) medications to treat minor health problems in their dogs. While some OTC medications are safe for dogs, many can be quite dangerous. Dogs metabolize drugs differently than people. It is crucial that you know and understand which OTC medications are safe to use and how much to use.

It is also important to note that even if an OTC medication is considered safe for dogs, administering an incorrect dosage can still be dangerous, or even fatal. With smaller breeds, it can be especially difficult to measure accurate dosages.

OTC Meds for Dogs – Precautions

While the over-the-counter option may seem simpler and cheaper, giving OTC meds to dogs without considering the precautions may prove more costly in the long run.

Most OTC meds are not FDA approved for use in animals, so the exact safe dosage may not have been determined through clinical studies and there are no clear dosage directions for dogs.

Veterinarians use dosages that have been developed anecdotally or through experience. It is therefore important to always check with your veterinarian first before giving any OTC medications to your dog.

In particular, if your dog has any pre-existing medical conditions or is already on another medication, ask your veterinarian if the OTC med you are going to give your dog is safe, and if the dosage has to be adjusted.

Important!

ALWAYS let your veterinarian know if your dog is taking any OTC meds because drug interactions can be fatal, and some OTC meds could be dangerous in dogs with chronic health problems.

Asking the pharmacist at your local drugstore is not good enough because while pharmacists are knowledgeable about human drug usage, they are usually unfamiliar with animal physiology.

Also, do not use any drugs that have past their expiration dates. Read the directions for use on the container and follow any special directions, e.g. taking on an empty stomach.

Always follow the directions given by your veterinarian. If possible, get a written dosage schedule and directions from your vet so you know exactly how to use the medication.

Before is a list of safe OTC meds for dogs (as suggested by the Dog Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook).

However, you still need to consult your veterinarian before giving any of these drugs to your dogs. In addition, the doses given below will need to be adjusted if your dog has other health conditions.

—–

We consider our dogs family members, so it’s a natural instinct to turn to your medicine cabinet to relieve your dog’s mild ailments. Many human meds are safe for dogs — but not all. Before popping any pills into your pup, make sure you follow these tips on over-the-counter medicine for dogs.

Always consult your veterinarian before giving your pup any medicine. Even over-the-counter meds that are generally considered safe for dogs may be potentially dangerous for certain breeds or dogs with pre-existing conditions.

1. Pain Relievers
Get 4 Free Pet Insurance Quotes
Any over-the-counter pain medicine containing Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen is not safe for dogs. These medicines can be extremely dangerous and even fatal. Buffered aspirin isn’t quite as risky, but most vets recommended avoiding most aspirins as unsafe over-the-counter pain medicine for dogs.

For more information on OTC pain meds for dogs, be sure to read our guidelines on the best pain meds for dogs.
2. Allergy Medications

Common antihistamines like Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Claritin (loratadine) and Zyrtec (cetirizine) relieve allergy symptoms and allergic reactions. These medications are usually safe for dogs, but they can cause drowsiness or hyperactivity.

Tip: Make sure your OTC allergy medicine only contains an antihistamine. Some may contain other ingredients, such as decongestants, which aren’t safe for dogs.

Dosage: 1 milligram for every pound, given twice daily????????
3. Gastrointestinal Medications
Pepto-Bismol

A staple in many medicine cabinets, Pepto-Bismal is safe for dogs (but not for cats!). It’s used to treat diarrhea, vomiting and an upset stomach. If your dog vomits up the Pepto-Bismol, however, you should consult with your veterinarian.

Dosage: 1 teaspoon per 20 pounds of weight, every 4-6 hours for 24 hours
Imodium

Imodium (loperamide) is safe for most dogs and cats to relieve diarrhea. If the diarrhea doesn’t improve after 24 hours, contact your vet promptly as diarrhea can quickly lead to potentially dangerous levels of dehydration.

Dosage: 1 milligram per 20 pounds of weight, every 4-6 hours.

WARNING: Some breeds related to Collies may have adverse reactions to Imodium. Do not give this medicine to Collies, Shelties, Australian Shepherds and Long-haired Whippets.
Pepcid-AC, Tagamet and Zantac

Pepcid-AC (Famotidine), Tagamet (Cimetidine) and Zantac (Ranitidine) are common OTC medications to treat or prevent heartburn and stomach ulcer-related symptoms. They’re generally effective and safe for dogs (and cats). You can administer the correct dosage once or twice a day.

It’s okay to use them for periodic dietary indiscretions, e.g. if your dog gets into a bag of chips or slurps up the rest of your salsa. See your vet to rule out other problems if your dog’s stomach woes persist.

Dosage:

    1/4 tablet for dogs less than 20 lbs
    1/2 tablet for dogs 20-60 lbs
    1 whole tablet for dogs over 60 lbs

4. Dramamine

An antihistamine that helps prevent motion sickness in dogs (and cats), Dramamine is safe for most dogs and works best if given at least ½ hour before travel.

Note: There are canine-specific medications that work faster and last longer than Dramamine.

Dosage:

    12.5 milligrams for small dogs
    25 milligrams for medium dogs
    50 milligrams for large dogs

5. Cold And Cough Medicine

Most OTC cold medications contain decongestants that are not safe for dogs, so steer clear. Many OTC cough meds, however, like Robitussin DM, contain ingredients that are relatively safe for dogs. Check with your vet before administering a cough medicine.

WARNING: If your dog is coughing, it could be a sign of a more severe problem like respiratory infection, heartworms or cardiac disease, so we advise that you have your pup examined by a vet before giving them human meds for coughing.
6. CBD Oil & Treats

CBD drops and CBD dog treats can ease several conditions your dog may suffer from occasionally or chronically, including:

    Anxiety and stress
    Moderate to severe pain
    Chronic inflammation
    Arthritis & joint pain
    Epileptic seizures
    Digestion problems (also see information about dog probiotics and tips to cure a dog’s upset stomach)
    Nausea
    Health concerns from cancer

Be sure to check with your vet before administering any product containing CBD.

Dosage: Varies depending on the product, dog’s size and dog’s symptoms.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide

You can use hydrogen peroxide topically to clean your dog’s superficial skin wounds, but it’s not as effective as antibacterial soap and water. If your dog ingests something toxic, you may be able to give them a small oral dose of hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting.

WARNING: Never induce vomiting unless your vet first approves it (and gives you a dosage). If you think your dog may have ingested a toxic substance, call the Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. If you are unsure, consult these symptoms to identify poisoning in your pet.
8. Antibiotic Ointments & Other Topical Creams

Can you use over-the-counter antibiotics and other topical creams for dogs? You have a couple of options here. Antibiotic creams, e.g., Neosporin, are common topical antibiotic creams used to treat minor cuts and scrapes. They’re safe for dogs, as long as they don’t contain steroids.

Be sure to clean your dog’s wound before applying any antibiotic ointment and cover the wound, so your dog doesn’t lick it off.

Hydrocortisone, another popular OTC topical cream, is also safe for dogs to relieve itchy, raw or irritated skin. You can apply a small amount up to two times daily.
9. Glucosamine (For Arthritis Relief)

The best over-the-counter arthritis medicine for dogs is Glucosamine (and Glucosamine in combination with Chondroitin Sulfate). Glucosamine is a long-term treatment for joint pain associated with arthritis. Read our article on Glucosamine for dogs to learn more.
10. Eye Drops

Is your dog blinking or squinting a lot? It could be due to dry eyes, allergies or debris. You can apply a bit of OTC lubricating eye drops to ease their irritation. Just make sure the drops are lubricating only — no Visine or other medicated eye drops.

If these drops don’t do the trick, however, go to the vet right away (especially if your dog’s eyes are red, swollen or have a discharge). An eye infection, a foreign body that needs removal or a scratch on the cornea all need immediate professional attention. These symptoms may also be early signs of cataracts or other more serious ailments.
11. Nasal Sprays

If your dog is congested or has a dry nose from a cold, you can give them pediatric or saline nasal sprays. Don’t use any other type of OTC nasal medication unless prescribed by your veterinarian.

—–

15 OTCs Goood for Dogs

Some human drugs are dangerous and can even be fatal when given to dogs. When a dog develops a health problem at home such as vomiting, diarrhea, or coughing, many pet owners want to know what they can safely give their dogs at home before taking their dog to the veterinarian.

Not only is important to know which medications are safe but also which medications are available to you without a prescription. Drugs you may obtain without a prescription are referred to as “OTC” drugs which means over-the-counter. OTC drugs are available at most pharmacies such as Wal-Mart®, Walgreens®, CVS®, Target®, and/or online pharmacies and drug stores.

Below we will give you information about 30 over-the-counter medications (OTC) that are commonly used humans and can be used safely in most dogs.

We will include information about stomach medications which can be used in dogs with sensitive stomach or vomiting, drugs to treat diarrhea, pain medications, drugs for coughing, drugs that can be used to treat dogs that have allergies and are showing symptoms such as itching, medications to use on dogs that get car sick, and a safe eye product.

It is recommended that you work with your family veterinarian before giving any medication to your dog.
Human OTC Stomach Medications Used in Dogs

        Famotidine (Pepcid®)

Famotidine, commonly known by the brand name Pepcid® among others, is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist that decreases the production of acid in the stomach. It is frequently used to treat stomach problems such ulcerations and for pets with nausea or are prone to vomiting.

Famotidine is the most commonly used in this class due to its improved mechanism of action and length of action.  Famotidine has largely replaced previous generation drugs, such as Cimetidine and Ranitidine. We will discuss these medications more below.

Famotidine is available in both injectable and oral tablet sizes. Common oral sizes include 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg. A common OTC size is 10 mg. A common dosage is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg/pound once to twice a day.

For example, a 10-pound dog would get 2.5 mg to 5 mg total dose or ¼ to ½ of a 10 mg tablet.  A 20-pound dog would get 5 mg to 10 mg per dose which would be ½ to 1 10 mg tablet.

Here is more information on how to safely dose and use Famotidine in dogs.

        Ranitidine (Zantac®)

Ranitidine, commonly known by the brand name Zantac among others, is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist that decreases the production of acid in the stomach. Like Famotidine listed above is commonly used to treat stomach problems such ulcerations.

Ranitidine is available in both injectable and oral tablet sizes. Common oral sizes include 75 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg. Here is an article on how to correctly dose and use Ranitidine in dogs.

        Cimetidine (Tagamet®)

Cimetidine, commonly known by the brand name Tagamet® among others, is the oldest common histamine H2 receptor antagonist drug that decreases the production of acid in the stomach. Cimetidine is less commonly used due to the development of new and better drugs in the class of histamine H2 receptor antagonist.

However, in a pinch, some pet owners have this medication in their homes and can use Cimetidine. Famotidine (also known as Pepcid and discussed above) and Ranitidine are known as Zantac and discussed above) both have fewer drug interactions with longer activity.

The risks associated with Cimetidine mostly evolves around its interaction with other drugs. If your dog or cat is on other medications, it is better to choose a newer generation histamine H2 receptor antagonist such as famotidine (Pepcid) discussed above that does not have those same possible adverse effects from drug interactions.

Learn more about how to safely dose Cimetidine in dogs and drug interactions that you should know about.

        Calcium Carbonate (Tums®)

Calcium carbonate, commonly known as Tums®, is an antacid and oral phosphate binder. It is commonly used as a calcium supplement in dogs with chronic hypocalcemia and to treat hyperphosphatemia associated with chronic renal (kidney) failure. Calcium carbonate can also be used as an oral antacid and for conditions such as esophagitis and/or gastroduodenal ulcerations. However, calcium carbonate is uncommonly prescribed as an antacid as there are stronger and more effective antacids.

There are many oral calcium carbonate products available in chewable and regular tablets in common sizes are 500 mg, 750 mg, and 1000mg. There is also oral suspensions 1250 mg/5mL.

The dose most commonly used in dogs as an antacid is 0.5 grams and up to 5 grams total dose orally every 4 hours as needed.  Small dogs can receive 500 mg, medium sized dogs 750 to 1000 mg and larger dogs 2000 mg.

Learn more about how to safely dose Calcium Carbonate (Tums®) in Dogs and Cats.

        Omeprazole (Prilosec®)

Omeprazole, commonly known by the brand name Prilosec®, is used in the treatment and prevention of stomach (gastric) and intestinal ulcers in dogs and cats.  Omeprazole belongs to a class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors and lasts about 24 hours.

The dose most commonly used in dogs is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg per pound once daily (ever 24 hours).  Common OTC dosage sizes 10 and 20 mg pill sizes.

Therefore, the dose for a 10-pound dog would be 2.5 to 5 mg (1/4 to ½ of a 10 mg tablet). The dose for a 50-pound dog would be approximately 12.5 to 25 mg total dose. It would be safe to give this dog 10 mg to 25 mg (1 to 2 ½  of the 10 mg tablets). Remember, you could give one 20 mg tablet as well if you purchase that size tablet.

Learn more about how to safely use omeprazole in your dog.

        Esomeprazole (Nexium®)

Esomeprazole, commonly known by the brand name NexIUM®, is used in the treatment and prevention of stomach (gastric) and intestinal ulcers in dogs and cats.  It is less commonly used then omeprazole (Prilosec) discussed above.

Learn more how to safely use esomeprazole in your dog. Esomeprazole (NEXIUM) for Dogs and Cats.
Human OTC Bowel Medications Used in Dogs

        Loperamide (Imodium®)

Loperamide, commonly known as Imodium®, is a synthetic piperidine derivative, that is used to treat diarrhea in dogs. It works primarily by slowing the movement of the intestines and may also decrease intestinal secretions, and enhance mucosal absorption.

It is best to use this over-the-counter medication under the guidance of your veterinarian. If your dog is showing concurrent vomiting, lethargy or weakness, it is best to have your dog evaluated by a veterinarian.

Learn more about how to safely dose Imodium in dogs and drug interactions that you should know about.

        Psyllium (Metamucil®)

Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative, commonly known by the brand name Metamucil® as well as many other generic names. It can be used in dogs with constipation and sometimes in dogs with chronic watery diarrhea.

Diarrhea in dogs is often treated with a bland diet as well. Please see more about Home Care of Diarrhea in Dogs.   Learn more about how to safely dose Metamucil in dogs.  Please make sure your dog always has plenty of water to drink when giving Metamucil.

        Simethicone  (Gas-X®)

Simethicone, commonly known as Gas-X, is an anti-foaming and anti-flatulence agent used to treat discomfort, pain, bloating, burping, and flatulence caused by excessive intestinal gas. It is generally safe for dogs of all ages.

Learn more about how to safely dose Simethicone in dogs: Simethicone (Gas-X) for Dogs and Cats

Also- here is an article that might be useful that discusses causes and treatment options for flatulence in dogs.

     Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (Miralax®)

Polyethylene glycol 3350, commonly known as MiraLAX®, is used as a laxative to treat canine and feline constipation. It commonly comes as a power you can mix with water or sprinkle on your pet’s food. MiraLAX® is also used to empty the intestines prior to diagnostic procedures such as a colonoscopy or intestinal surgery in both pets and humans. MiraLAX® is available without a prescription at most pharmacies. Learn more about how safely use MiraLAX in your pet. Learn more about how to safely give Miralax to your dog.

11.  Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol®, Kaopectate®)

Bismuth subsalicylate, better known as Pepto-Bismol, is used to treat diarrhea and minor stomach problems, such as stomach inflammation. New formulations of Kaopectate® contains salicylate. This is important because two tablespoons of Pepto-Bismol contain almost as much salicylate as one aspirin tablet. Some dogs are sensitive to aspirin and should not be given with other medications including steroids (such as Prednisone, Dexamethasone) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs (such as Rimadyl, Novox, Meloxicam, Deramaxx and many more). Please use only under the advice of your veterinarian.  Learn more about how to use bismuth subsalicylate in dogs.

IMPORTANT WARNING: Bismuth Subsalicylate should never be used in cats.

    Culturelle®

Culturelle is a probiotic recommended in dogs with diarrhea, constipation, or dog that have excessive “gas”. Probiotics are substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the intestinal flora. They are generally live bacteria and yeasts.

The intestinal tract is normally full of bacteria, both good and bad, and in the healthy body has the right balance. In illness or while taking certain medications such as antibiotics, the bad bacteria can take over. Probiotics can help restore the good bacteria and reestablish the right balance. There are many types of probiotics and one that is commonly used in dogs and cats is called “Culturelle”. Learn more about probiotics and prebiotics.

Culturelle is a human over-the-counter product. It is available in capsules and in sachet’s (little packets like sweeter). The dose of the packet is generally easy as you sprinkle it on the food. The dose is 1/10 of a packet per 10 pounds of body weight daily. A 50-pound dog would get ½ packet once a day. ADD LINK AFTER ADD ARTICLE

     Bisacodyl (Dulcolax®)

Bisacodyl is commonly known as Dulcolax® and is used as a laxative to treat constipation for dogs and cats.  Bisacodyl is available in 5 mg tablets, 5 mg and 10 mg rectal suppositories and 10 mg/30 ml enema bottles. For dogs, the dose varies between 1 to 4 tablets once daily. If you believe your dog is constipated, we recommend that you see your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. Some dogs will strain and appear to be constipated and actually have a urinary obstruction or colitis.

Learn more about how to safely give your dog Dulcolax.

      Docusate Sodium (Colace®)

Docusate sodium is commonly known as Colace® and is used as a laxative to treat constipation in dogs and cats.  It can also be used to clean out the intestinal tract in dogs before diagnostic procedures and surgery.

As mentioned above under Dulcolax, some dogs will strain and appear to be constipated but actually may be a life-threatening urinary obstruction or colitis. See your veterinarian if you have concerns.

Learn more about how to safely give your dog Colace.
Allergy Medications

     Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®)

Diphenhydramine, commonly known by the brand name Benadryl® among others, belongs to a class or drugs known as antihistamines. Diphenhydramine is routinely used for dogs for treatment of symptoms associated with allergies or allergic reactions.  Signs of allergies in dogs often include excessive itching and licking of the skin. Dogs with acute allergic reactions can have swollen faces (especially around the muzzle and eyes) and hives. Dogs with chronic allergies often have secondary skin infections and Diphenhydramine can be used in conjunction with antibiotics and steroid medications to control clinical signs.

Although diphenhydramine is relatively safe, side effects may include sedation, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and lack of appetite.

The most common dose used in dogs for diphenhydramine is 1 mg per pound. Therefore a 25-pound dog would get one 25 mg tablet and a 50 pound would get two 25 mg tablets. When buying diphenhydramine, make sure “diphenhydramine” is the only ingredient. It also comes in a liquid formulation made for children which makes it easier to dose in smaller dogs.

For more information, learn about how to safely give your dog Diphenhydramine.

For 15 more over-the-counter medications (OTC) that are commonly used in humans and can be used safely in most dogs, please visit this article: 15 MORE Human Over-the-Counter Drugs Safe for Dogs.

Some human drugs are dangerous and can even be fatal when given to dogs. When a dog develops a health problem at home such as vomiting, diarrhea, or coughing, many pet owners want to know what they can safely give their dogs at home before taking their dog to the veterinarian.

Not only is important to know which medications are safe but also which medications are available to you without a prescription. Drugs you may obtain without a prescription are referred to as “OTC” drugs which means over-the-counter. OTC drugs are available at most pharmacies such as Wal-Mart®, Walgreens®, CVS®, Target®, and/or online pharmacies and drug stores.

Below are 15 more over-the-counter medications (OTC) that are commonly used in humans and can be used safely in most dogs.  For the first 15 over-the-counter medications (OTC) that are commonly used in humans and can be used safely in most dogs, please visit this article: 15 Human Over-the-Counter Drugs Safe for Dogs.
Allergy Medications (con’t)
16. Cetirizine (Zyrtec®)

Cetirizine, commonly known by the brand name Zyrtec®, belongs to a class or drugs known as antihistamines, similar to Benadryl. It is commonly used in dogs with allergic symptoms such as inflamed and/or itchy skin.  In cats, Cetirizine is more commonly used to treat inflammation of the nose and sinus. Many pet owners prefer Cetirizine over Benadryl because of its longer lasting effects.

A common dose used for dogs is 0.25 to 0.5 mg per pound of body weight. Therefore a ten-pound dog would get 2.5 to 5 mg total dose and a 50-pound dog would get 12.5 mg to 25 mg total dose. Common OTC pill sizes are 10 mg.

For more information on how to safely give Cetirizine in dogs.
17.  Chlorpheniramine (Chlor-tabs® or Chlor-Trimeton®)

Chlorpheniramine maleate is a type of anti-histamine drug commonly used in dogs with allergies to control itching.  Human formulations include Chlor-tabs®, Aller-Chlor®, Chlo-Amine®, Chlor-Trimeton®, and various generic preparations. A common side effect is sedation and therefore is occasionally used as a mild sedative.

Chlorpheniramine is contraindicated in dogs with glaucoma, lung disease, heart disease, high blood pressure and prostate gland enlargement.

Chlorpheniramine is available in 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg, 12 mg and 16 mg tablets and as a 2-mg/5 ml oral syrup.  Most dogs take 4 to 12 mg (total dose) orally. Learn more about how to safely dose Chlorpheniramine in dogs.
18.  Fexofenadine (Allegra®)

Fexofenadine

, commonly known as Allegra or Telfast, is an antihistamine drug that can be used to control itching and other signs related to allergic conditions. It is important only to use products that indicate the active ingredient is Fexofenadine. Formulas containing Fexofenadine and pseudoephedrine, such as Allegra-D can be toxic to dogs so please be VERY careful. Make sure if you give Fexofenadine to your dog, that Fexofenadine is the ONLY ingredient. Learn more about how to safely give Fexofenadine to your dog.
19.  Loratadine (Claritin®)

Loratadine

, commonly known as Claritin or Alavert, is a type of antihistamine drug commonly used in dogs to control itchy skin. Loratadine is typically considered less sedating than other antihistamines. Learn more about how to safely dose Loratadine.
Pain Medication
20. Traumeel (T-Relief®)

T-Relief is an over-the-counter homeopathic medication commonly used to pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and musculoskeletal injuries, such as with arthritis, sprains and traumatic injuries.

T-Relief contains a combination of plant and mineral extracts. It has gained popularity in veterinary medicine as an alternative to the class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (commonly abbreviated as NSAIDs) because of its good results with minimal to no side effects.

T-Relief is available in the forms of tablets, drops, injection solution, ointment, and gel.  Learn more about how to safely dose Learn more about how to correctly dose Traumeel (T-Relief) in your dog.

T-relief is commonly used with other pain relieving drugs. When combined with other drugs, it can sometimes allow you to use lower doses of medications associated with more side effects.
21. Zeel

Zeel® is a homeopathic medication used to treat pain and inflammation often associated with musculoskeletal injuries, such as sprains and traumatic injuries, and as supportive therapy in pain and inflammation of the musculoskeletal system such as with arthritis in dogs and cats. Like T-Relief, Zeel® has gained popularity in the United States an alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NASID) to treat pain and swelling.

Zeel® is available in the forms of tablets, ointment, and drinkable ampules. Zeel® can be used in conjunction with other pain medications and is sometimes used in conjunction with another homeopathic medication called Traumeel (T-Relief). It can be used safely with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s), steroids, and other pain relief drugs.

The dosage for Zeel® tablets in dogs is one tablet every 8 hours for 2 weeks then decrease to every 12 hours for maintenance. Learn more about how to safely dose Zeel in dogs.
22. Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin)

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), or more commonly known as aspirin, belongs to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs commonly abbreviated as NSAIDs. It is commonly used in dogs to treat minor pain and inflammation for chronic conditions like arthritis.  It can also reduce fevers and can reduce a chemical that is important in the effectiveness of platelets. This results in platelets losing their ability to clump together to prevent bleeding.

Aspirin can upset the stomach and intestines due to its irritating chemical nature and because it blocks the beneficial body chemicals that protect the linings of those organs. Therefore, stomach irritation cannot always be prevented by giving the drug with food or by using a “buffered” or coated aspirin tablet.

Aspirin may interact with other medications and should never be used with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Rimadyl, Novox, Meloxicam, Deramaxx and many more) and steroids (such as Prednisone).

To be safest, never administer aspirin to your dog without consulting your veterinarian because there are many drug interactions and side effects.

In healthy dogs that are taking no other medications, a typical dose is 5 to 10 mg per pound (10 to 20 mg/kg) twice daily for dogs. Read more about the safety of and dosing Aspirin in dogs.   Please see and talk to your veterinarian before giving more than a dose or two. There are better alternatives available as a prescription product.
23. Ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®)

Ibuprofen, commonly known by the brand names of Motrin® or Advil® and may more can be used in dogs to reduce swelling and inflammation, most commonly from arthritis and musculoskeletal pain.  Ibuprofen belongs to a general class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). While NSAID’s are effective in reducing pain, inflammation, and fever, they carry the risk of causing stomach ulcers, liver injury, and kidney damage in animals. Ibuprofen needs to be given with special care.

Ibuprofen is commonly used on a short-term basis in dogs and can NEVER be given to cats.  Ibuprofen should ONLY be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. It should NEVER be given with other NSAID drugs such as aspirin, Novox, Meloxicam, Rimadyl, Deramaxx and many more or steroids such as prednisone or dexamethasone. Used improperly, ibuprofen can be highly toxic.  Learn more about how to safely dose Learn more about how to safely give Ibuprofen to dogs.
24.  Naproxen (Aleve®)

Naproxen

, commonly known as Aleve or Naprosyn, is used to alleviate pain and inflammation in dogs. Naproxen belongs to a general class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) that work to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. There is no safe dose for cats!  If given to dogs, the dose ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 mg per pound once daily. Most veterinarians prefer and recommend other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) over Naproxen that has proven to be safe and effective for dogs. If you believe your dog needs a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, please talk to your veterinarian for recommendations. Learn more about how to safely dose Naproxen.
Medications for Cough
25. Dextromethoraphan (Robitussin DM®)

Dextromethorphan, commonly known by the brand name Robitussin-DM®, can be used in dogs to suppress and alleviate coughing. It is considered a mild cough suppressant. It can be prescribed in dogs with conditions such as tracheobronchitis (kennel cough), chronic bronchitis, tracheal (windpipe) collapse and bronchial compression.

In dogs, the dose given is 0.5 to 1 mg per pound (1 to 2 mg/kg) every 6 to 8 hours. Does as high as 5 mg per pounds may be used twice daily in some situations.  Many veterinarians recommend doses of anywhere from 1 ml to 2 ml per 10 pounds of body weight.

Please note that some veterinarians do not recommend cough suppressant with some conditions. A cough is Mother Nature’s way of clearing something from the airway which can be an important mechanism. By suppressing the cough, you may be allowing secretions to fall deeper into the respiratory tract. Please see your veterinarian if your dog is coughing to help you determine the underlying cause of the cough and help you establish if Robitussin DM® is safe for your dog.

Learn more about how to safely use dextromethorphan in dogs.
26. Pseudoephedrine  (Sudafed®)

Pseudoephedrine HCL, commonly known by the brand names Sudafed® or Equiphed®, is a drug that can be used to treat respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and nasal congestion. It can also increase urethral tone in dogs with abnormalities.

As a therapeutic drug for respiratory disease, it is uncommonly recommend because of the risk for toxicity in some dogs. There are other drugs with similar effects and with less side effects.  Dogs receiving pseudoephedrine should be carefully monitoring for signs of toxicity.

Pseudoephedrine is available in 30 mg and 60 mg tablets and 120 mg capsules. Please Read more about the toxic effects and safety of using Sudafed® in dogs.
Medication for Car Sickness
27. Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine®)

Dimenhydrinate

, more commonly known as Dramamine®, is used to treat nausea and motion sickness. Dimenhydrinate is an antihistamine that inhibits stimulation of the vestibular system of the brain. The vestibular system is located within the inner ear and is responsible for detecting motion. Excessive or overstimulation of the vestibular system can result in dizziness, nausea, and stumbling.

Dimenhydrinate can be used to treat dogs affected by motion sickness e.g. get carsick. Read our drug library on for more information about  how to safely dose Dramamine in Dogs.
28.  Meclizine (Bonine®, Antivert®)

Many dogs develop carsickness and drool excessively or vomit during an automobile, boat or airplane ride.

Meclizine, commonly known by the brand names of Bonine® or Antivert®, is an antihistamine commonly used in dogs and cats to treat allergies and can reduce the sensation of motion sickness. Get information about the best way to dose Meclizine in dogs.
Medication for Bleeding
29. Yunnan Baiyao

Yunnan Baiyao is a protected traditional medicine originating in China. It is a hemostatic powdered medication famous for its use in the Vietnam War to stop bleeding by the Vietcong. The formula for Yunnan Baiyao is a closely guarded secret.

Yunnan Baiyao is used orally to stop internal bleeding and has been effective topically in wounds to stop bleeding and optimize healing.  This drug is truly fascinating. Learn more about how it is used in dogs and cats.
Eye Products and Medications
30. Eye Lube

The first rule for pets with eye problems – NEVER ever put anything in your dogs’ eye that you would not put in your own eye. Better yet – never put anything in your dog’s eye that is not prescribed by your veterinarian.

If your dog is having an eye problem, we recommend that you see your veterinarian. Some eye problems are an emergency. There are some eye medications contraindicated in certain situations. For example, if your dog’s eye is red and inflamed as caused by a corneal ulcer, medications that contain steroids can be harmful.

What is safe to use in your dog’s eye? Over-the-counter artificial tears are safe. Products include Tears Naturale II, Isopto Tears, Refresh Celluvisc, and Refresh Liquidgel.  Avoid products that contain alcohol and preservatives in the ingredient list.

For tips on how to place eye lubrication in your dog’s eye – go to “How to Medicate Dog Eyes”.

It is possible for your dog to do a lot of damage if he or she rubs or scratches at the eye.  If this occurs, please see your vet as soon as possible.

We hope this article gives you more information about over-the-counter human medications and products that can be used in dogs and cats. If your pet is having a medical problem, we recommend that use all products be used under the guidance of your veterinarian. For the first 15 over-the-counter medications (OTC) that are commonly used in humans and can be used safely in most dogs, please visit this article: