Dextromethorphan For Dogs: 100mg Dosage Chart & Calculator

Dextromethorphan for dogs is a combination medication that includes 2 active ingredients:

• Dextromethorphan: A cough suppressant agent which acts by altering the signals in the brain to produce the cough reflex.
• Guaifenesin: An expectorant that can help to loosen the mucus and phlegm so that your pet’s ability to remove it from his or her airways is eased.

Dextromethorphan Guaifenesin is a common combination used in human cough products and although it has been adapted for use in veterinary cases under the guidance of a vets’s professional visit.

The combination of these two ingredients, the suppression of the cough reflex and the contribution to clearance of the mucous, make it particularly useful in treating certain varieties of respiratory conditions in dogs.

Dextromethorphan For Dogs Dosage

Standard dosage of Dextromethorphan Guaifenesin 100 mg tablets for small dogs is 1/2 tablet repeated every 4 hours. For large dogs the dosage is 1 tablet per dog every 4 hours.

Dextromethorphan Dosage Chart For Dogs By Weight

Dog Type	Weight Range	Dosage	Frequency
Small Dogs	Under 20 lbs (9 kg)	½ tablet	Every 4 hours
Medium Dogs	20-50 lbs (9-23 kg)	½-1 tablet	Every 4 hours
Large Dogs	Over 50 lbs (23 kg)	1 tablet	Every 4 hours

Important Points of Dosage

• It is best to start Dextromethorphan for dogs with the lowest effective dosage and gradually increase it under veterinary supervision.
• Don't exceed the maximum recommended daily dose, usually 4-6 administrations consumed within a 24-hour span
• Try to be regular in the intervals between doses that you supply to your pet to ensure continued maintenance of effective levels of medication in the pet systems.
• The use of Dextromethorphan for dogs is generally recommended for short term uses (typically no longer than 7-10 days) unless otherwise ordered by your veterinarian.

Dextromethorphan Guaifenesin Uses in Dogs

• Kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis)
• Bronchitis
• Minor infections of the respiratory tract
• Conditions characterized by coughs that are dry and hacking

It's important to note that the use of dogs Dextromethorphan is aimed to treat the symptoms and not the cause of the cough. A proper veterinary diagnosis is imperative to ensure proper treatment to the root condition.

Safety Issues Prior to Administration

Prior to giving any type of medication to your puppy including Dextromethorphan Guaifenesin, please consider the following important factors:

• Dogs Dextromethorphan Guaifenesin might not be appropriate for canines that have some health conditions such as liver disease, heart conditions or those who require some specific medication.
• Compared to other drugs, this medication shouldn't be given to canines with productive coughs (where there is mucus being expelled) as this can be harmful to the pet to suppress these coughs.
• The safety of this drug in pregnant or nursing pets has not been determined.

How to Give Dextromethorphan Guaifenesin to Your Dog

• Direct administration:
  • Holding your pet properly by taking its mouth open where you place the tablet on the back of the tongue of the pet. Stroke the throat; have the person close his mouth and encourage swallowing.
• With food:
  • Hide the tablet in a lump of soft food, peanut butter that contains no xylitol or in a pill pocket treat.
• Crushing option:
  • There are some tablets that can be crushed and mixed with a small piece of palatable food. Check with your veterinarian first before crushing any medication as some should not be crushed.

For Liquid Formulations

• If your veterinarian has recommended the liquid formulation:
• Use Syringe / Dropper for correct measurement.
• Gently pull out the lower lip and form a pouch and pour the liquid into this pouch.
• Hold the muzzle closed and stroke the throat in order to encourage swallowing.

Dextromethorphan Side Effects in Dogs

While Dextromethorphan Guaifenesin today is generally well-tolerated when used properly, there are a few canines who will experience a side effect of taking the topical medication:

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting /diarrhea)
• Changes in appetite
• Allergic reaction (rare, but seek immediate Medicinal veterinary care in the event of signs of swelling, difficulty breathing, and hives)

If you notice any side effects of concern, contact your veterinarian right away.

When to See a Veterinarian

Call your veterinarian if:

• Your pet's cough lasts longer than 7-10 days
• The cough increases inspite of medication
• Your pet develops new symptoms
• Your pet suffers from side effects from the medication
• Your pet has pre-existing health conditions that may be affected by this medication

You May Also Like To Read:

• Carprofen For Dogs
• Simplicef® Cefpodoxime For Dogs

FAQs

Useful References to Learn More:

• https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dextromethorphan
• https://www.petmd.com/pet-medication/cough-tablets-for-dogs
• https://vetmeds.org/pet-poison-control-list/dextromethorphan/#!form/PPCDonations