What pills should not be given to dogs? - briefly
Certainly. When it comes to administering medication to dogs, there are several types of pills that should be avoided. Specifically, ibuprofen and acetaminophen, commonly found in human pain relievers, can be highly toxic to dogs. Additionally, xylitol, an artificial sweetener often found in sugar-free gum and candies, is extremely dangerous for dogs.
What pills should not be given to dogs? - in detail
When it comes to administering medication to dogs, it is crucial to remember that many human drugs can be highly toxic to them. Some of the most common medications that should never be given to dogs include:
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Ibuprofen and Naproxen: These nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used by humans for pain relief, but they can cause severe stomach ulcers and kidney failure in dogs. Even a small dose can be fatal.
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Acetaminophen: Commonly known as paracetamol, this medication is safe for humans but highly toxic to dogs. It can damage the liver and red blood cells, leading to serious health issues or even death.
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Aspirin: While veterinarians may prescribe aspirin for specific conditions in dogs, it should never be given without professional advice. High doses of aspirin can cause stomach ulcers and kidney damage.
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Pseudoephedrine and Phenylpropanolamine: Found in many cold and allergy medications, these decongestants can raise a dog's heart rate and blood pressure to dangerous levels.
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Xylitol: This sugar substitute is often found in sugar-free gum and candy. It can cause a rapid release of insulin in dogs, leading to a sudden drop in blood sugar levels and potentially fatal liver failure.
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Antidepressants: Medications such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine (Paxil) can cause severe neurological problems in dogs, including seizures and abnormal heart rhythms.
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ADHD medications: Drugs like Adderall and Ritalin contain stimulants that are highly dangerous to dogs. They can cause restlessness, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, and even heart attacks.
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Benzodiazepines: While some veterinarians may prescribe these for specific conditions, human benzodiazepines like Xanax and Valium can be extremely dangerous to dogs without professional supervision. They can cause severe depression of the nervous system.
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Opioids: Medications such as codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone are highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause severe respiratory depression and death.
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Beta-blockers: Drugs like propranolol and atenolol can slow a dog's heart rate to dangerous levels, leading to hypotension and even cardiac arrest.
It is essential to consult with a veterinarian before administering any human medication to your dog. Even if the drug is safe for dogs, the dosage must be carefully calculated based on the dog's weight and specific condition. Always keep medications out of reach of pets and store them in secure containers. In case of accidental ingestion, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately.