Why has my veterinarian prescribed Ephedrine for my dog?
Ephedrine is used to help control urinary incontinence in dogs. It may also be used to open up the air passages of the lungs and to relieve nasal congestion. Ephedrine is an alpha-receptor stimulant.
How do I give Ephedrine to my dog ?
- Give this medication to your dog as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
- If the medicine is a liquid, measure the dose with reasonable care.
- Try to give this medication at about the same time each day.
- DO NOT give your dog more medicine than directed.
- DO NOT give more often than directed.
- Try not to miss giving any doses.
What if I miss giving a dose?
Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your dog two doses at once.
How do I store Ephedrine?
- Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
- Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
- Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.
What are the potential side effects?
- The following side effects may occur: fast heart beat, high blood pressure, tremors, restlessness, anxiety, hyperexcitability, and urine retention.
- Contact your veterinarian if your dog becomes very restless or irritable or if incontinence increases or persists.
- Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.
Are there any possible drug interactions?
- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your dog.
- Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
- The following drugs can potentially interact with ephedrine: sodium bicarbonate, amitriptyline, sympathomimetic agents (phenylpropanolamine), indomethacin, aspirin (and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents), reserpine, tricyclic antidepressants, ganglionic blocking agents, beta-blockers, and digitalis glycosides.
- Contact your veterinarian if your dog experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.
REMEMBER! READ THE LABEL.
Based on material written by Rita Ozolins, B.Sc., Phm. and modified with permission from Lifelearn Inc.
© Copyright 2005 Lifelearn Inc.
