Just like a mom, long-time dog owners are experienced enough to spot when their pup is nauseated or about to vomit.
New dog owners, on the other hand, sometimes wish their furry baby could talk. Maybe their favorite rug could have been saved if their dog has warned them before vomiting.
Picture nighttime and your sick puppy is vomiting everywhere. Of course, the vet is closed, and you’re left to wonder: can my dog take Zofran? Or is it just for humans?
The short answer is: yes, they can. There are tons of human medications that doctors are prescribing for canines every day. There’s no harm in them when given in specific doses, and under the supervision of a professional physician.
Below, you’ll find answers to most of the questions going through your head.
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What is Zofran?
Zofran is the brand name for ondansetron, which is an antiemetic that physicians recommend for treating severe nausea and vomiting. Additionally, It can be used to treat sleep apnea or itching in some dogs.
It’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration for human use. However, it is usually prescribed for dogs as an “off-label” drug.
How is Zofran Given?
It’s usually given in a tablet or syrup form. There’s also an injectable version that can be given in the muscle, vein, or under the skin.
If it causes vomiting when taken on an empty stomach, make sure to give future doses alongside a meal or a treat.
Dosage
You should never give your dog any medicine before consulting your vet. That being said, dosage may vary according to certain factors like the dog’s weight or condition. Generally, the usual dose for dogs is 0.05 to 0.5 milligram per pound every 12 to 24 hours.
If you missed a dose, give it when you remember. Alternatively, skip the dose if it’s almost time for the next one, then continue regularly.
Side Effects
Potential but rare side effects might be sedation, constipation, or head shaking. Also rare but more serious side effects are low blood pressure or heart rhythm abnormality.
Pay attention to other symptoms your pup may be showing and discuss them with your vet.
Precautions
Before giving your dog Zofran, you ought to know the following:
- Zofran interacts with some medications. That’s why you should inform your vet about any other treatments your dog is receiving, including supplements and vitamins.
- Certain breeds are hypersensitive or allergic to ondansetron like sheepdogs or collies.
- It should be given cautiously to pets with arrhythmia, gastrointestinal blockage, or liver disease.
- It wasn’t proved safe for pregnant or lactating dogs.
Overdose
If you accidentally gave your dog an overdose, please contact your vet immediately.
What Causes Nausea in Dogs?
We’ve all been there. It simply starts with a lovely car ride with your puppy, and horribly ends up at the carwash cleaning all the gooey vomit. How about that time at Thanksgiving when your furball had too much to eat?
There are several reasons why dogs might get nauseous. Those reasons may be as simple as:
- Overeating or eating too fast
- Eating something spoiled
- Motion sickness, especially in young pups
- Stress
- Being left in a hot car
- Changes in diet or treats
- Licking something that tastes nasty, like cleaning products
Other more serious reasons include:
- Bacterial infection
- Viral infection
- Intestinal parasites
- Acute kidney failure
- Cancer chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Pancreatitis
- Liver failure
A Final Thought
Always turn to your trusted vet about any concerns you may have regarding the health of your beloved pet. Needless to say that you should never give your pet any unprescribed medications.
Finally, we can never emphasize enough how important regular doctor visits are. They help in the early discovery of any underlying medical condition.
Better safe than sorry.
