Read This Before Giving Your Dog Tagamet!

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Are you wondering if your dog can take Tagamet? Is it a safe drug?

Many owners ask about this H2 blocker which makes sense because stomach upset and acid reflux are super common among canines.

Can I Give My Dog Tagamet?Here’s the deal:

Some vets do prescribe Cimetidine, the active ingredient in Tagamet, for extra label use in dogs. However, there are many other options for inhibiting stomach acid production.

With Vet Approval, Your Dog Can Take Tagamet

Reasonably dosed Cimetidine HCI is not known to be dangerous. And it can alleviate gastric issues for animals as well.

With that being said…

Pepto Bismol has much more of a track record. And sometimes the best course of action is to get your dog a quality probiotic.

Cimetidine For Canines

It is common knowledge that Cimetidine reduces stomach acid which, in turn, helps with acid indigestion and heartburn.

But Tagamet can also help your dog with gastrointestinal symptoms such as inflammation of the esophagus (megaesophagus) or stomach.

IBS, Acid Reflux And Ulcers

Many of Tagamet’s uses are similar for both humans and dogs.

Cimetidine can be given for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as well as stomach and intestinal ulcers.

But long term use is questionable. Your dog needs a diagnosis for chronic or recurring problems.

Cancerous Mast Cell Tumors

You may be surprised to learn that Tagamet can help to fight off cancer metastasis.

Some vets prescribe the drug for dogs with mast cell tumors of the gastrointestinal tract.

Cimetidine can also be utilized for fighting off parvovirus.

How Does Tagamet Work?

Tagamet is a histamine blocker (antagonist) which means it will reduce the amount of stomach acid in your dog’s tummy.

Cimetidine is really effective at creating gastrointestinal conditions that allow for stomach normalization.

FYI: The ability to inhibit the H2 receptor is how many other brands, such as Zantac and Pepcid AC, also work.

Dog Dosing of Cimetidine

It is important to ask your veterinarian about dosing Tagamet even though it’s generally well-tolerated.

A general rule of thumb is 3-5mg for each pound of your dog’s body weight.

Breakup tablets or use the liquid form. A dose is typically given every 6 to 8 hours.

Remember that Tagamet can negatively interact with other drugs.

If your dog is approved, make sure they complete the prescription unless instructed otherwise.

Tagamet’s Known Side Effects

Some pets experience adverse effects or allergic reactions in response to Tagamet.

Typical side effects include a reduced heart-rate and lack of coordination and/or sluggishness. There are actually not a lot of observable symptoms that dogs exhibit from taking Tagamet.

Again, involve your vet before giving Cimetidine or similar products as doing so will reduce risks.

Warning: Dogs with kidney, liver disease, heart rhythm abnormalities or those lactating generally should not be given Tagamet. Hypersensitivity is also a concern.

The Bottom Line

Cimetidine HCI, AKA Tagamet, can be given to dogs when appropriate.

This acid reducer can reduce your pet’s stomach discomfort, but there are also potential side effects.

Lots of other drugs can help your dog, many of which are arguably safer.

Be sure to speak with your veterinarian before administering Tagamet.

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One thought on “Read This Before Giving Your Dog Tagamet!”

  1. My 15 year old dog has just been diagnosed with CKD. He is not eating and his tummy feels sick, but no vomiting. I read here that Tagamet is not recommended for dogs with kidney problems so I’m a bit confused because my pet was given this medication.

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