Loperamide is actually an active ingredient from human medicine. However, it can also be used for dogs with certain diseases.
It is important that dosage and application only take place after consultation with the veterinarian. Standalone applications can have serious side effects.
The following lines explain what you need to know about loperamide for dogs.
Loperamide for dogs: what is it and what is it used for?
loperamid for dogs is a so-called antidiarrheal. It is used for diarrheal diseases in dogs.
The present diarrheal diseases are usually of a severe nature. Loperamide can help if the diarrhea won’t go away.
It is also administered in the presence of colitis. Loperamide for dogs is also used for diarrhea as a result of chemotherapy.
Loperamide is found in Imodium, among others. The drug is a popular remedy for diarrhea in human medicine.
You can get loperamide for your dog in the form of tablets. For small and light dogs, veterinarians recommend loperamide in drop form.
However, be careful with the drops as they may contain alcohol. And that’s definitely not a good idea for the dog.
Loperamide is administered to dogs orally, i.e. through the mouth.
Proper use and dosage of loperamide in dogs
The correct dosage of loperamide in the dog lies between 0.04 and 0.08 mg per kilogram of body weight. The dog gets the right dosage for him once a day.
Depending on the severity of the disease, veterinarians often decide on the maximum daily dose of loperamide.
The frequency of use is also higher. It then usually takes place between three and four times a day.
How fast does loperamide work in dogs and how long can I use it?
The effect of loperamide continues in the dog after a few days right one. If there is no improvement after 2 days, discontinue treatment.
An application of loperamide in the dog may only last a few days. If the diarrhea does not end then, an alternative treatment must be found.
What side effects can loperamide cause in dogs?
Loperamide can stop diarrhea – and as a one of the side effects is constipation trigger.
Flatulence is also one of the unsightly side effects of loperamide in dogs.
Also, some dogs may experience additional weight loss as a result of treatment with loperamide.
In rare cases, serious side effects can occur, such as:
It makes sense to discuss these side effects in advance with the veterinarian.
When should I not use loperamide on my dog?
Under no circumstances should dogs with the MDR1 gene defect be treated with loperamide. The fur noses show a sometimes severe hypersensitivity to loperamide.
It manifests itself with the following symptoms:
- ataxia
- weakness
- disorientation
- hyperexcitability
- noise hypersensitivity
In the worst case, administration of loperamide can be fatal for the dogs.
Already knew?
The Border Collie, the Shetland Sheepdog, the Australian Shepherd and mixed breeds from these breeds are among those affected by the MDR1 gene defect.
Dogs with:
Puppies should also not be given loperamide.
Where can I buy loperamide for dogs?
Loperamide for dogs is available in pharmacies. The active ingredient does not require a prescription. Nevertheless, there are a few requirements to be observed.
It is important that you do not officially buy the drug for your dog. The dispensing of human medicine for animals is no longer allowed without further ado.
This also applies to medicines that do not require a prescription.
What alternatives are there to loperamide for dogs?
Depending on the severity of the diarrhea, natural remedies can be alternatives. These include, among other things Porridge (oatmeal) and boiled rice with turkey.
The two home remedies also have a calming effect on the dog’s stomach. They can be fed as a bland diet for a few days.
You can find more home remedies in our guide to diarrhea in dogs: 7 home remedies that really help.
Probiotics and prebiotics can also help with mild diarrhea. They support a healthy intestinal flora.
Providing enough fluids is important. This way you can compensate for the loss of fluid caused by diarrhea.
The active substance metronidazole can be another possibility. It is known as the diarrhea pill. Most dogs don’t have bad experiences with him.
However, it is an antibiotic. Metronidazole should therefore only be given on the advice of a veterinarian.
Already knew?
Metronidazole also has an anti-inflammatory effect and is antiparasitic. The associated drug Metrobactin for dogs is prescribed for Giardia.
If your dog suffers from severe diarrhea, you should definitely take him to the vet.
The alternatives mentioned can then be part of the treatment. However, only the expert should decide on this.
Has your dog already had to be treated with loperamide? What experiences and tips can you share? We are happy to read them in the comments.