Can I Give My Dog Dramamine?
Tory JohnsonDramamine is the brand name for the antihistamine dimenhydrinate. Dimenhydrinate is used by humans to treat nausea and prevent motion sickness. It can also be used for its sedative effects and to reduce itchiness associated with allergies (antihistamine properties). Liquid Dramamine for dogs is becoming a popular method to help relieve your dog's car sickness.
Although not its primary use, your vet may prescribe Dramamine as an "off label" use as part of their veterinary medicine.
Please follow your veterinarian's instructions and warnings before administering Dramamine. Their instructions may be different from the label.
Liquid Dramamine for Dogs Dosage by Weight
It's best to consult with your vet on how much Dramamine to give your dog. The dosage can depend on your dog's weight, breed, and circumstances.
Generally, vets prescribe a dose of two (2) to four (4) mg of Dramamine per pound of body weight.
Medium and large dogs will likely need a larger dose than small dogs.
Make sure your vet weighs your dog accurately. Inaccurate measurements can lead to an overdosing or under dosing and the medication will not take effect.
If you're using liquid Dramamine to help relieve motion sickness symptoms, try giving this medication thirty (30) to sixty (60) minutes prior to travel.
Chewable tablets may take a bit longer to kick in.
Dramamine will take effect quickly, in about 1 hour.
Please DO NOT give products that contain a combination of ingredients.
Dimenhydrinate should be the only active ingredient listed on the product.
Does Dramamine Make Dogs Sleepy?
If you've given your dog Dramamine, you're probably wondering if it will make them sleepy.
The most common side effects of Dramamine for dogs is lethargy and making them sleepy. Although this is not the primary use, lethargy and sedation can occur.
So, please make sure you provide your dog the correct dose.
To help your dog fall asleep, check out our guide to the best natural sleeping pills for dogs.
Side Effects
Please speak with your veterinary medicine when you are first giving your dog Dramamine. Pet owners everywhere know you can overdose and underdose your dog's medication.
6 Common Side Effects
In the case of an overdose, here are 6 common side effects of Dramamine you may see in your dog.
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Trouble Urinating
- Dry mouth
- Lack of appetite
Other serious side effects like seizures and even coma may indicate a large overdose. Please contact your veterinary medicine immediately if your dog is overdosing.
Lastly, do not give Dramamine to pregnant or nursing pets.
Other Drug Interactions
Central nervous system depressants, anticholinergic drugs, and tricyclic antidepressants all may interact with Dramamine. Please let your vet know if your dog is taking these medications.
Dramamine may interact with antigen (allergy) skin testing. Please discontinue use two (2) weeks prior to testing your dog for allergies.
As always, let your vet know about any medications, supplements, vitamins, or herbal treatments your pet is taking.
Conclusion: Dramamine makes dogs sleepy
We hope this informational article has given you some confidence in your knowledge of Dramamine. It's a well studied medication but you should follow your vet's directions on how to treat dogs appropriately.
So, will Dramamine help your dog's motion sickness? Try giving your dog Dramamine and see how they benefit.
Do you have any experience giving your dog Dramamine? Have you tried other natural remedies? Do you recommend Dramamine as a prescription medication? Does your dog suffer from motion sickness?
Let us know in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much Dramamine to give a dog?
Generally, vets prescribe a dose of two (2) to four (4) mg of Dramamine per pound of body weight.
Is Dramamine safe for dogs?
Although not its primary use, your vet may prescribe Dramamine as an "off label" use as part of their veterinary medicine.Please follow your veterinarian's instructions and warnings before administering Dramamine. Their instructions may be different from the label.
