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Can I Give My Dog Zyrtec?

Zyrtec (Cetirizine HCl)

The use of Zyrtec, also known as Cetirizine, would be an ‘off-label’ use of this product for animals. While many human medications are administered for ‘off-label’ use in veterinary medicine, there are some things you must consider before administration, and instructions from your veterinarian must be carefully followed. Let us explain … Zyrtec is an antihistamine that veterinarians may use to treat mild to moderate itching associated with seasonal and environmental allergies. It is a human drug that is used ‘off-label’ or ‘extra-label’ with relative success and safety in animals. Zyrtec can be recommended by your veterinarian to use used as needed for short-term allergic flare-ups or long-term for chronic allergies. Long-term use seems necessary, be sure to discuss a thorough long term plan with a licensed veterinarian. What are the risk factors? • Only use plain Zyrtec (cetirizine) under the advice of your veterinarian. Zyrtec-D should never be administered due to potentially serious side effects associated with pseudoephedrine. • Zyrtec should never be used in animals that experience a hypersensitivity to (cetirizine) Zyrtec or hydroxyzine (Atarax®, Vistaril®). • Be sure to inform your veterinarian if your pet has a history of seizures, difficulty urinating, constipation, thyroid concerns, prostatic enlargement, heart/kidney/or liver disease, glaucoma, pregnant or lactating females, or senior dogs. • Zyrtec is not recommended for working dogs as they may become lethargic after administration. • Zyrtec is known to have interactions with other drugs such as digoxin (Lanoxin®, Cardoxin®), diazepam (Valium), and alprazolam (Xanax®, Niravam®) which would be contraindicated. Be sure to provide your veterinarian with a list of medications, vitamins, supplements, herbal therapies etc. that your pet is taking so your vet can help you avoid adverse events before administering any new products to their daily routine. • Side effects that have been reported include: excessive salivation, vomiting, and drowsiness. If side effects are seen, be sure to report all concerns to your veterinarian. Itching and inflammation can be caused by many things, including allergies, food hypersensitivity, parasites, bacterial, and fungal infections. While antihistamines can be helpful managing allergies, they are not a substitute for a thorough evaluation by your veterinarian, as your pet may require additional or alternative treatment. Additionally, not every antihistamine works the same for every animal. Just as one person may find Zyrtec works best, another person may use Claritin, and the same goes for pets. Don’t be frustrated if Zyrtec doesn’t seem to work for your pet. Have a conversation with your vet about possible alternatives. Provided your pet has no pre-existing health concerns, is not on any other medications, and you follow the dosing guidelines use as directed by your veterinarian, Zyrtec is fairly safe for your pooch. Never use Zyrtec without consulting your veterinarian and never use for an extended period of time without ensuring your veterinarians feels it is safe for your dog to use long term. Discontinue use if symptoms do not improve or worsen under treatment or you notice any side effects. A good rule of thumb to follow for all medications and concerns about your pets is: when in doubt, ask the experts! You are your pet’s advocate - be involved and stay informed! Zyrtec Dosing & Guidelines * Information provided below outlines what a typical dose might look like. Always consult your veterinarian on the appropriate dose for your specific animal when using any vitamin, supplement, prescription or use of off-label products. Some vets may prescribe outside of these ranges based on specific needs of the patient. Here are a few guidelines: 1. Zyrtec comes in 5 and 10 milligram (mg) tablets. Only use plain Zyrtec (cetirizine) and avoid use of Zyrtec-D due to potentially serious side effects. 2. The dose for dogs is approximately 0.5 mg per pound, or 0.5 mg/lb, 1-2 times per day, not to exceed 20 mg per dose. For example: - 5 lb. dog = 2.5 mg, or 1/2 of a 5 mg tablet - 10 lb. dog = 5 mg, or one 5 mg tablet - 20 lb. dog = 10 mg, one 10 mg tablet or two 5 mg tablets - 50 lb. dog = 20 mg, two 10 mg tablets - 100 lb. dog = 20 mg, two 10 mg tablets 1. Invest in a pill cutter if your pet requires half tablet dosing to maintain accuracy. Your veterinarian, pharmacist or a local pharmacy should be able to supply one or point you in the right direction. Disclaimer The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. Zyrtec should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.

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