Here we can see, “Is Pepto-Bismol Safe to Give to Dogs?”
For humans experiencing gastrointestinal distress, Pepto-Bismol is a popular alternative. Because it is so effective, many individuals keep it on hand. If your dog is suffering stomach problems, you might be tempted to give him some Pepto-Bismol to help him feel better. Regrettably, this may be a horrible idea. Although Pepto-Bismol can be administered to dogs occasionally, it should be done with caution.
What Is Pepto-Bismol?
Bismuth subsalicylate is a brand name for the active component bismuth subsalicylate. Pink bismuth is another name for it. Bismuth subsalicylate can also be found in Kaopectate, Bismatrol, Diotame, and several Maalox and Mylanta products.
Bismuth subsalicylate is the bismuth salt of salicylic acid. The medication is antiemetic and anti-inflammatory. It is used to treat diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, and heartburn in humans. Bismuth subsalicylate-containing medications are sometimes used to treat diarrhea in dogs, but they should be used cautiously.
Bismuth subsalicylate medications are available over-the-counter as a suspension, pill, or capsule. Pink is the color of Pepto-Bismol products. Many generic versions of bismuth subsalicylate are also pink. However, some are white or green.
Is Pepto-Bismol Safe to Give to Dogs?
Pepto-Bismol may help relieve diarrhea in dogs when administered under the guidance of a veterinarian. It could also be utilized to treat Helicobacter bacterial infections in dogs. However, constipation, black-colored feces, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, bleeding, and toxicity are all possible adverse effects.
Salicylates include bismuth subsalicylate. Aspirin, commonly known as acetylsalicylic acid, is a salicylate. Although the mechanisms of these two medications differ, they can have similar harmful consequences on dogs. Salicylates can induce gastrointestinal discomfort, ulcers, and liver and kidney damage. When taken inappropriately, these medications can be extremely hazardous to dogs.
The usage of bismuth subsalicylate in dogs is frequently avoided:
- The drug’s hazards may outweigh its advantages.
- Dogs frequently dislike the flavor of the suspension and are hesitant to consume it.
- Bismuth subsalicylate causes the feces to turn black, making it challenging to identify GI bleeding.
Blood digested in the feces has a black, tarry look.
Veterinarians may occasionally offer Pepto-Bismol, but there are safer and more effective medications for treating diarrhea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues. Before feeding your dog Pepto-Bismol or comparable drugs, consult with your veterinarian.
How to Give Pepto-Bismol to Your Dog
Before administering your dog Pepto-Bismol or any drugs containing bismuth subsalicylate, consult your veterinarian. Suppose you need to utilize an over-the-counter product and cannot get to the veterinarian’s office for a better choice. In that case, your veterinarian may recommend the use of bismuth subsalicylate.
Your dog should be given Pepto-Bismol suspension orally at the dose advised by your veterinarian. Never give your dog more than recommended because it may cause poisoning. Because the dosage of the pills and capsules is far too high for dogs, they must take the suspension. Use the original strength recipe rather than the ultra or extra-strong versions. Check the ingredients carefully; never give drugs that include xylitol, often known as birch sugar, as it is particularly hazardous to dogs.
To improve palatability, store Pepto-Bismol in the refrigerator. Before using, give the suspension a good shake. The typical dosage for dogs is one milliliter per five kilograms (11 pounds) of body weight, three times per day. If your veterinarian recommends it, do not use the product for more than two days. If your dog’s diarrhea lasts more than two days, you should take him to the doctor for an evaluation rather than treating him at home.
Bismuth subsalicylate should not be given to dogs on steroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (common NSAIDs include aspirin, carprofen, deracoxib, piroxicam, and meloxicam). If your dog is currently taking any other drugs, consult with your veterinarian about the correct dosage and timing of bismuth subsalicylate. Bismuth subsalicylate should not be administered to dogs with bleeding disorders, pregnant or nursing dogs, or pups under six months. In addition, this drug should not be given to dogs who are allergic or sensitive to aspirin or other salicylates.
Toxicity and Overdoes with Pepto-Bismol
Although most dogs loathe the taste of Pepto-Bismol, certain dogs can find it and consume too much of it. Unfortunately, it’s also easy to give your dog too much food by accident—mistakes happen. Some dogs may have toxic effects after receiving the correct dose of bismuth subsalicylate, but an overdose is more likely to result in difficulties.
The toxicity of salicylates is severe. It can cause vomiting (sometimes blood-related), depression, overheating, internal bleeding, trouble breathing, tremors, seizures, and coma. Death might result from a severe overdose or a lack of effective treatment. If you feel your dog has consumed too much bismuth subsalicylate, contact a veterinarian. If the medicine was recently consumed, you might be directed to induce vomiting. Never induce vomiting unless directed to do so by a veterinarian.
Gastric lavage, oral administration of activated charcoal to absorb toxins, and intravenous fluids may be used to treat salicylate toxicity in the beginning. Dogs will frequently require lab testing to evaluate harmful effects and hospitalization to be treated and adequately monitored. Depending on the circumstances, more drugs may be required. Most dogs will recover completely if the poisoning is detected early and the dog receives medical attention.
User Questions
Is it okay for dogs to take human Pepto-Bismol?
Pepto Bismol is both an anti-inflammatory and an antacid that can be taken orally. When used correctly, Pepto Bismol is safe for humans and dogs (but not cats!).
Can I give tums to my dog if he has a stomach ache?
Tums can treat moderate stomach discomfort, heartburn, and diarrhea in dogs. Calcium carbonate, the active component, decreases excessive stomach acid in persons who take it. However, dogs digest things faster than humans, and the drug may pass through too quickly to be useful in many circumstances.
Is it OK for dogs to take Tums or Pepto-Bismol?
For an upset stomach or heartburn, your dog can be given Pepto Bismol, Tums, Pepcid (famotidine), or Tagamet (cimetidine). These drugs operate by reducing GI acid production and can make your best friend feel better.
What antacids can be given to a dog?
Famotidine, often known by the brand name Pepcid, is a medication that can be administered to dogs to treat a range of gastrointestinal problems. It works by lowering stomach acid production in dogs, which can aid in treating stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and gastritis.
What OTC Can I give my dog for gas?
Simethicone is a medication that can treat gas problems in dogs. It’s the generic name for a product known by the brand name Gas-X. The medicine works temporarily by promoting the creation of more giant gas bubbles.
Conclusion
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