What happens if you give your dog too much antihistamine

Is It Possible to Overdose on Antihistamines?

An antihistamine overdose, also called antihistamine poisoning, occurs when theres too much of the medication in your body. This can be life-threatening.

Antihistamines, or allergy pills, are medications that reduce or block the effects of histamine, a chemical the body produces in response to an allergen.

Whether you have seasonal allergies, indoor allergies, pet allergies, food allergies, or a chemical sensitivity, an allergic response can trigger multiple symptoms, such as:

• sneezing
• coughing
• sore throat
• runny nose
• skin rash
• ear congestion
• red, itchy, watery eyes

Allergy medication is considered safe when used correctly and can provide quick relief from symptoms, but its possible to take too much. Its important that you understand proper dosing to avoid toxicity.

Antihistamines include first-generation medications that have a sedating effect and newer non-sedating types.

Examples of sedating antihistamines include:

Examples of non-sedating antihistamines include:

Its possible to overdose on both types of antihistamines. Symptoms of an overdose when taking sedating medication can vary but may include:

• increased drowsiness
• blurred vision
• nausea
• vomiting
• increased heart rate
• confusion
• loss of balance

More serious complications of first-generation antihistamine overdose include seizures and coma.

Non-sedating antihistamine overdoses tend to be less toxic and less severe. Symptoms may include:

Sometimes, however, tachycardia can occur. This is when your resting heart rate is more than 100 beats per minute.

Symptoms of an overdose usually appear within six hours of taking too much antihistamine. Your symptoms may start off mild and then gradually worsen over time.

Deaths from antihistamine overdose

There have been reports of death due to antihistamine toxicity. These include accidental overdoses and intentional misuse.

Death can occur when an overdose causes severe complications such as respiratory distress, cardiac arrest, or seizures. Each persons tolerance to medication can vary. However, toxicity usually occurs when a person ingests three to five times the recommended dosage.

Medical emergency

To avoid life-threatening complications, call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have any symptom of an overdose. You can also call the Poison Control Help Line at 800-222-1222.

Antihistamine overdose treatment focuses on stabilizing your health and providing supportive care.

Youll likely receive activated charcoal in the hospital. This product is used in emergency situations to help reverse the effects of poisoning. It works as an antidote, stopping the absorption of toxins and chemicals from your stomach into the body. Toxins then bind to the charcoal and exit the body through bowel movements.

In addition to activated charcoal, general support may include cardiac and respiratory monitoring.

The prognosis depends on the amount of antihistamine ingested and the extent of an overdose, but a full recovery is possible with immediate medical treatment.

Some side effects of taking antihistamines can mimic symptoms of an overdose. These include mild nausea, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

These symptoms dont usually require medical treatment, and may subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Even so, check with a doctor if you have side effects. You may need to reduce your dosage or take a different medication.

The difference between a side effect and an overdose is the severity of symptoms. Severe symptoms like rapid heart rate, tightness in the chest, or convulsions require a visit to the emergency room.

Antihistamines are safe when used properly. Here are some tips to avoid ingesting too much:

• Dont take two different types of antihistamines simultaneously.
• Dont take more than the recommended dosage.
• Dont double up on doses.
• Keep drugs out of reach of children.
• Dont take two doses too close together.

Make sure you read labels carefully. Some antihistamines can interact with other drugs you take. If you dont know whether its safe to combine an antihistamine with another medication, speak with a doctor or pharmacist.

Be mindful that some antihistamines include other ingredients like a decongestant. If you take these types of antihistamines, its important that you dont take a separate decongestant.

Antihistamines can also relieve allergy symptoms in children, but they arent right for all children. Generally speaking, you shouldnt give an antihistamine to a child under the age of 2.

Dosage recommendations for children ages 2 and up vary depending on the type of antihistamine, and its sometimes based on a childs weight.

Talk to your childs pediatrician or pharmacist if you have questions about the proper dosage.

Whether you have seasonal or indoor allergies, an antihistamine can help relieve symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, sore throat, and watery eyes.

However, taking too much of an antihistamine can lead to an overdose or poisoning. Be sure to read medicine labels carefully and dont take more than directed.

Piriton for dogs: Everything you need to know

Piriton, the popular antihistamine, is commonly used by humans as a form of allergy relief. But is it safe for dogs suffering with allergies, too?

Not sure whether Piriton is safe for dogs? From dose, to the common side effects, we speak to the experts to find out everything you need to know...

Can you give your dog Piriton?

Anna Threlfall, a medicine specialist at Davies tells Country Living: "I think the safest thing to say is that chlorphenamine (Piriton) can be administered to dogs, but this should be done under the direction of a veterinary surgeon.

"If you are concerned that your dog might have an allergy, please speak to your vet for advice. There are several different antihistamines used in dogs for a variety of different conditions. They are generally safe, but should only be used as directed."

Some of the symptoms that will show if your dog has allergies include:

• Red, itchy and inflamed skin
• Incessant chewing of paws
• Irritated skin around eye or ear

When should I give my dog Piriton?

You should not give your dog Piriton unless you have consulted your vet and they have given specific advice surrounding your dog's needs. You should consult your vet if your dog is suffering from an allergic reaction and displaying any of the symptoms listed above.

A vet will know the correct cause of action for a dog with allergies.

Can pharmacists legally sell Piriton if they know it is for an animal?

No, pharmacists can't legally sell Piriton if they know it is for an animal. If someone wishes to give their animal Piriton it will have to be obtained from the vets or via a veterinary prescription you cannot buy this over-the-counter.

Regardless of its safety in dogs, this is a human medicine and not one that is licensed for use in animals. Therefore, pharmacies have to refuse sale of Piriton if they are aware that it is for animal use.

For a human medicine to be used in an animal it has to be prescribed by a vet under the 'cascade system.' This means that a human medicine can only be supplied against a veterinary prescription if there is not a licensed animal product already available for that specific problem.

Anna tells us: "Some allergy medication, such as chlorphenamine (Piriton), can be administered to dogs. The indications and doses are, however, variable and therefore the medication should only be administered under the direction of your veterinary surgeon.

"If you are concerned that your dog has an allergy that might benefit from such medication, please seek veterinary advice. If chlorphenamine (Piriton) is deemed appropriate, you can purchase this from your vets or request a prescription so this can be purchased from a human pharmacy under the direction of a veterinary surgeon."

How much Piriton should you give a dog?

According to expert advice, the proper dosage depends on a number of different factors including the size, weight and breed of your dog. Your vet will know this when they administer the correct medication for your dog. In general, 1/2 a 4mg tablet or 5ml is prescribed for smaller breeds, while 1-2 tablets or 10-20ml of liquid can be given to larger dogs.

piriton Piriton Allergy tablets - 30 tablets

piriton Piriton Allergy tablets - 30 tablets

How long does Piriton take to work in dogs?

According to Dogs Barn, you should notice some improvement within 24 hours of giving Piriton to your dog. While you may notice your dog feeling a little drowsy at first, this is completely normal and is nothing to worry about. Always consult your dog for details on the correct dosage.

Are there any side effects of Piriton for dogs?

While there are few side effects with the drug, it's always important to know what to look out for.

1. Drowsiness: Piriton is an antihistamine, so it can make your dogs drowsy in the same way it does humans. Before giving it to your pup, make sure the dosage is correct.

2. Diarrhoea: Dogs react differently to different medications, so you may find your pup has an upset stomach. If this continues, it's advised you book an appointment with your vet.

3. Dry mouth: Another side effect you may spot is your dog having a dry mouth. If this is the case, ensure your dog has plenty of fresh water to drink throughout the day.

4. Nausea/vomiting: Often, dogs will vomit as an initial reaction to something. This shouldn't last long, but if it does persist, stop giving the tablets to your dog and seek advice from a vet.

5. Changes in behaviour: You may notice a change in your dog's behaviour. Again, this should also pass but if you are worried it's advised you seek professional advice from your vet.

10 dog breeds most likely to suffer from hay fever

Some dogs are more likely to suffer from hay fever than others due to their exposure to pollen when they were young, the shape of their nose, their coats and their surroundings. Read our full article on dogs and hay fever here.

1. Pit Bull Terrier
2. Bichon Frise
3. Boxer
4. Cocker Spaniel
5. German Shepherd
6. Golden Retriever
7. Dalmatians
8. Irish setters
9. Schnauzers
10. West Highland terriers

What is Piriton?

Piriton is an allergy tablet, licensed for human use only, which contains the active ingredient chlorphenamine maleate. Piriton is used to help control symptoms caused by allergic conditions, such as hay fever, hives, food allergies, and insect bites.

The tablets can be purchased in a range of British supermarkets, for humans only.

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Can I Give My Dog Benadryl? And if So, How Much?

NOTE: Its always best to contact your veterinarian for guidance before administering any medication to your pet, including Benadryl.

Benadryl, also known by its generic name,diphenhydramine, is one of the few over-the-counter drugs designed for people that veterinarians may have pet parents administer at home.

You might be looking at using Benadryl for dogs to keep your pup calm, or maybe your dog wasstung by an insectand is having a mild allergic reaction. But while Benadryl is generally well tolerated by dogs and has a wide safety margin, its not necessarily the answer to your dogs issue.

For some dogs, giving Benadryl to calm them may have the opposite effect and make themmore anxious. In addition, Benadryl shouldnotbe given to animals with certain health conditions or pups taking certain medications.

So, when is Benadryl for dogs effective and safe, and when does your dog need a different treatment? Here are a few things you should keep in mind before giving your dog Benadryl.

What Is Benadryl?

Benadryl is a first-generation antihistamine that prevents H-1 receptors in the body from reacting to histamine. It can also ease nausea and vomiting by inhibiting the chemoreceptor trigger zone (vomiting center) in the brain and reducing the way that the vestibular apparatus (the balance center in the ear) responds to motion.

Veterinarians most commonly recommend that pet parents give their dogs Benadryl to prevent or treat mild allergic reactions and to reduce nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness or vestibular disease.

Can Benadryl Be Used for Dog Allergies?

Taken orally, Benadryl for dogs can help ease mild allergic symptoms to common triggers such as pollen, mold, and house mites, particularly if its used in combination with other allergy treatments. Benadryl can also be used for mild allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. Oral or injectable Benadryl can be used as a pre-treatment for mild allergic vaccine reactions.

But if your pet is having anacuteallergic reaction with facial swelling or difficulty breathing, take them straight to the vet. Severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening. Dogs often require aggressive supportive care and treatment with steroids and epinephrine in addition to Benadryl.

Can Dogs Take Benadryl for Anxiety?

You might have heard thatBenadryl can be given to dogs to help with travel anxietyor dogs that are scared offireworksandthunderstorms, but it really isnt very effective. Benadryl may make some dogs a little sleepy and less responsive, but it doesnt do anything for their underlying anxiety.

Benadryl does has someefficacyin the prevention of motion sickness in dogs. So, if your dog is anxious because theyre nauseous in the car, it could help. Some dogs and cats actually have the opposite reaction to Benadryl, causing hyperactivity instead of sedation.

If your dog has anxiety, talk with your veterinarian to determine a course of treatment. It might involve making changes to your dogs environment, behavioral training, prescription medications, or tools such asanxiety vests and pheromones.

Is Benadryl Safe for Dogs?

By and large, Benadryl is very well-tolerated in dogs, with few side effectsand a low risk of overdose when used correctly.

But the reason why you still need to check with your veterinarian is because there are safety risks if your dog has certain health conditions or takes certain medications.

Some instances in which Benadryl should not be used (or should be used with caution) include:

• Cardiac conditions (cardiovascular disease)

• Some lung conditions

• Liver disease

• Seizure disorders

• Difficulties urinating

• Glaucoma

• Pregnancy

• In conjunction with certain medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and come drugs used to treat fungal infections

Side Effects of Benadryl for Dogs

At normal doses, the most common side effects of Benadryl exhibited by dogs include drowsiness and being unsteady on their feet. But if a dog receives too much Benadryl, they might exhibit:

Call your veterinarian for advice if your dog experiences any worrisome symptoms after taking Benadryl.

Whats the Benadryl Dosage for Dogs?

With any medication, the safest way to know the proper dose for your dog is to ask your veterinarian. In addition, many formulations are combined with other potentially dangerous medications, such as Tylenol. Make sure your Benadryl tablets contain only diphenhydramine.

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the standard dose for Benadryl is 24 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.91.8 milligrams (mg) of Benadryl per pound.

Therefore, a simple and practical dose is 1 mg of Benadryl per pound of your dogs weight, given two to three times a day. For example, a 10-pound dog might receive a 10 mg dose in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Your Dogs Weight	Recommended Dosage	Maximum Dosage
5 pounds	5 mg	10 mg
10 pounds	10 mg	20 mg
20 pounds	20 mg	40 mg
30 pounds	30 mg	60 mg
40	40 mg	80 mg
50	50 mg	100 mg
75	75 mg	150 mg
100 pounds	100 mg	200 mg

There are also different forms of Benadryl, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and childrens chewable tablets, all of which can make it difficult to figure out the amount to give your dog. When in doubt, ask your vet!

Benadryl Tablets and Capsules

Benadryl tablets are available and contain either 25 mg or 50 mg of diphenhydramine, which would be the appropriate size for a 25-pound or 50-pound dog, respectively.

Give more than one tablet or capsule at a time to add up to the appropriate dose for larger dogs. You can split 25 mg tablets in half to fine-tune your dogs dose. For example, one 50 mg tablet and half of a 25 mg tablet would be appropriate for a dog weighing 60 pounds.

Childrens Chewable or Liquid Benadryl for Dogs

Childrens chewable or liquid Benadryl are good options for tiny dogs. A full chewable childrens tablet contains only 12.5 mg of diphenhydramine and can be cut in half for dogs that weigh less than 10 pounds.

Childrens liquid Benadryl contains only 2.5 mg/ml and may be easier to give to small dogs that resist taking pills.

How Often Can You Give Your Dog Benadryl?

Dogs can be given Benadryl every eight to 12 hours (two to three times a day).

Are there Alternatives to Giving a Dog Benadryl?

Diphenhydramine has been around for a long time, and continued research has led to the development of treatments that may be more effective than Benadryl.

• Using several different types of treatment at the same time (medicated shampoos, supplements, and prescription medications, for example) is the best way to manage a dogs allergies.

• Prescription anti-anxiety medications for dogs combined with a behavioral modification program will do a much better job than Benadryl when it comes to helping dogs with anxiety.

Talk to your veterinarian if you have any questions about giving your dog Benadryl or other ways to keep them healthy and happy.

Featured Image: iStock.com/ILIA KALINKIN

WRITTEN BY

Jennifer Coates, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Jennifer Coates is an accomplished veterinarian, writer, editor, and consultant with years of experience in the fields of veterinary...