Why has my veterinarian prescribed Ranitidine for my dog?
Ranitidine is a histamine-blocking agent. It helps reduce the amount of gastric acid secreted in the stomach and helps protect the stomach against the formation of ulcers. It has also been used to treat gastritis and other reflux and hypersecretory conditions. Ranitidine may be used to stimulate contractions of the stomach.
How do I give Ranitidine 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(s) each day.
- DO NOT give your dog more medicine than directed.
- DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
- DO NOT stop giving this medication to your dog unless directed by your veterinarian. Call your veterinarian ahead of time if your dog needs a refill.
- 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 Ranitidine?
- 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 other damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.
What are the potential side effects?
- Side effects are rare when the medication is given at the recommended dosage.
- Your dog may experience some diarrhea.
- Occasionally this medication may cause an irregular heart-beat if given by injection.
- 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 or supplements you are giving to your dog.
- Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if 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 ranitidine: propantheline bromide, antacids, procainamide and ketoconazole.
- If ranitidine must be given with antacids, give it at least 2 hours before or after the antacid.
- 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.
