Dogster: Our Veterinarian Explains the Safety and Effectiveness

Benadryl, also known as diphenhydramine, is a commonly used antihistamine in households for both humans and pets. While it is readily available and often used to help alleviate symptoms in dogs, it is important to understand its uses, administration, potential side effects, and contraindications.

What Is Benadryl?

Benadryl is an antihistamine medication primarily labeled for humans but has been used off-label in several species, including dogs. It is commonly used to combat itchiness associated with allergies, mast cell tumors, allergic reactions, hypersensitivity cases, insect stings, and vaccine reactions. Benadryl can also be used as an antiemetic and to help patients with vestibular disease.

How Is Benadryl Administered?

Benadryl is typically administered orally as a liquid, pill, or capsule. It should not be given intravenously. Care should be taken to ensure that flavored tablets or liquids do not contain xylitol, which is harmful to pets. Before administering Benadryl to your dog, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian for proper dosing instructions.

Potential Side Effects of Benadryl

Some potential side effects of Benadryl in dogs include drowsiness, dry mouth, dry eyes, urinary retention, gastrointestinal signs, and tachycardia (elevated heart rate). While Benadryl is generally considered safe, there are medical conditions and potential drug interactions that may make it unsuitable for certain pets.

Contraindications

Diphenhydramine should be avoided or used cautiously in dogs with difficulties urinating, asthma attacks, liver disease, seizure disorders, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, asthma, COPD, and closed-angle glaucoma. Possible drug interactions may occur if Benadryl is administered concurrently with CNS depressant drugs and MAO inhibitors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is Benadryl Safe to Use in Pregnant Dogs? It is unknown if Benadryl should be used in pregnant animals, so it is best to avoid it as a precaution.
• Should I Use Vetadryl Instead of Benadryl? Both products can be used, but dosing with Vetadryl may be more convenient in some cases.
• Should Diphenhydramine Be Given Every 8 or 12 hours? The dosing interval can vary based on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to therapy.

In Summary

Benadryl, or diphenhydramine, is a versatile medication that can be beneficial for various conditions in dogs. However, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian before administering it to ensure proper dosing and to consider any potential contraindications or interactions with other medications. By following the guidance of a veterinary professional, you can safely use Benadryl to help alleviate your dog’s symptoms and improve their overall well-being.