Phenergan is a first generation antihistamine, but it is also used for its sedative and antiemetic properties.
Some dogs are good candidates for this drug, and you’ll be happy to hear that it usually works without complications.
With that being said, we do not recommend that leftover Phenergan be provided to your precious pet dog.
While short-term use can be beneficial, there are several things to consider before treatment can begin. Keep reading to learn more…
With Vet Approval, Your Dog Can Take Phenergan
The main concerns are misuse, inappropriate dosing and interactions with other drugs.
Promethazine (trade name Phenergan) is generally safe, but play it safe by first getting your dog diagnosed.
There could be a problem that can’t be helped with Phenergan and, if so, administering it could make matters worse.
Multiple Phenergan Uses
Promethazine is favored because it is a reasonable treatment for lots of different common canine problems.
Dogs with allergies or hypersensitivity disorders respond to Phenergan. Indeed, this Antihistamine has a good track record.
The drug is also super useful for motion sickness or if your dog needs to be calmed.
However, there may be better and more appropriate options for your pet’s particular situation. That is where an experienced veterinarian comes in!
Read more about antiemetics for dogs.
Harmful Drug Interactions
Is your dog is on other medications?
Promethazine may negatively interact with drugs such as Hydroxyzine.
Bad interaction possibilities are compounded with canines. Dogs are more susceptible to harm. Their internal organs are smaller.
Make no mistake about it:
Phenergan can be dangerous.
Safe Dosing For Dogs
This is for reference only and checking with your vet is a must.
1mg for every 2 pounds, taken twice daily is the maximum Phenergan dose for most dogs.
Sometimes a higher amount is needed, but the risks increase. Dosing should also depend on your treatment objective.
Most owners crush up tablets and mix the contents in with regular dog food.
But do not provide any amount of Phenergan if you lack the knowledge. This also goes for other antihistamines.
Phenergan’s Side Effects
Every drug comes with the potential for scary side effects and Phenergan is no different.
Your dog may suffer from a central nervous system depression which can be quite serious.
Closely watch over your dog when they’re on Phenergan. Dry mouth is common, but sometimes the sedative effects can be overwhelming for animals.
Ask your vet about the possibility of Polaramine instead of Promethazine.
The Bottom Line
Phenergan can help certain dogs, depending on their particular circumstances, though there are risks and possible side effects.
The drug is sedative and generally works for high-strung pets. For example, this prescription antiemetic is often used for road trips.
Phenergan is also a antihistamine for dogs with allergies.
But as with nearly all pharmaceuticals, dosing and interacts are real concerns.
So be sure to involve a trusted vet before giving your dog Phenergan.
My 7 month old English Staffy is itchy a lot. Can I give him Promethazine HCI (10mg) once a day?
My Dad has topical Phenergan gel that he puts on his wrists so that he can keep down his other medications. I wanted to make sure that if my dog accidentally licked the spot (after it was dry and absorbed) she wouldn’t die from doing so. It’s nice to know that the medication itself isn’t completely toxic.
My dog has been prescribed Apoquel (16mg) which is very expensive. He also has pancreatic problems and requires special feeding which is also expensive. I’m just looking to see if I can cut down on costs by giving him Phenergan instead. What else I can do for him? Thanks!