Can dogs take hydroxyzine?

Yes, dogs can take hydroxyzine. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that may help treat allergies, anxiety, and motion sickness in dogs. The most common side effect is drowsiness. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully on how to give hydroxyzine to your dog to avoid side effects.

What is hydroxyzine used for in dogs?

Hydroxyzine is used off-label in dogs to treat symptoms due to allergies and other health conditions. This means the medication is not FDA approved for use in dogs, but veterinarians sometimes prescribe human hydroxyzine for them. Hydroxyzine may help treat:

• Itchy skin
• Sneezing
• Itchy eyes
• Teary eyes
• Motion sickness

Some reasons your dog may need to take hydroxyzine include seasonal allergies, a reaction to a vaccine, bee stings, itchy skin, or nausea from motion sickness. It can also be used as a sedative to help calm your dog down.

What are the brand names of hydroxyzine for dogs?

Hydroxyzine comes in both brand and generic versions. Common brand names of this medication include Atarax, Masmoran, Multipax, and Vistaril.

How does hydroxyzine work in dogs?

Hydroxyzine is a first-generation antihistamine. It works by blocking a chemical in your body called histamine, which usually causes itching and swelling.

How much hydroxyzine should I give my dog?

Hydroxyzine comes in oral capsules, tablets, and suspensions. These forms are more common to give to your dog in a home setting, but your dog may also receive hydroxyzine through an intravenous (IV) injection by a trained veterinary professional.

The recommended dose of hydroxyzine for dogs is based on their body weight. Your veterinarian will calculate the most safe and effective dose for your dog. In general, the usual dose in dogs is 0.5 mg/kg to 2 mg/kg by mouth every 6 to 8 hours as needed.

You can give hydroxyzine to your dog with or without food. If they have stomach upset, give them their dose with food. It may be easier to hide the medication inside of their food or a “pill pocket” treat.

If your vet prescribes a liquid version of hydroxyzine (suspension), shake it well before giving your dog their dose. Also make sure to use a dosing device such as a syringe that is provided by your veterinarian. Do not use household spoons because this could cause you to give your dog the wrong dose.

How long does hydroxyzine take to work?

It typically takes 1-2 hours for hydroxyzine to take effect. After this time, your dog’s symptoms should start improving. If you do not notice any improvement in your dog’s symptoms, contact your vet. Do not try to give them more medication without first consulting a veterinary professional.

Related questions

• Can you take hydroxyzine for anxiety and sleep?
• Does Benadryl help with or cause anxiety?
• Can hydroxyzine be taken long-term?

What if I miss a dose?

If you forget to give your dog their dose of hydroxyzine, give it to them as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for their next dose, however, just skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule.

Do not double up to make up for a missed dose because this can cause severe side effects in your dog, such as extreme drowsiness or seizures.

How long does hydroxyzine last?

The effects of hydroxyzine typically last 6 to 8 hours, but may last up to 24 hours. If your dog has liver or kidney problems, the medication could last longer.

What are the side effects of hydroxyzine in dogs?

The most common side effect of hydroxyzine in dogs is drowsiness. Other side effects of hydroxyzine that your dog may experience include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Trouble urinating
• Increased thirst
• Poor appetite
• Constipation

More severe side effects may include seizures and behavior changes. Contact your vet if you notice any bothersome side effects in your dog.

If your dog is pregnant, it is not recommended to give them hydroxyzine. This is because the medication may cause birth defects.

What medications does hydroxyzine interact with?

Hydroxyzine can interact with some other medications, so it is important to share a list of medications your dog is taking with your veterinary professional. Some medications that can interact with hydroxyzine include:

• Anticholinergics
• Epinephrine
• Other medications that can cause drowsiness in your dog (e.g., CNS depressants)

In some situations your vet may recommend spacing certain medications out to avoid interactions. They may also change your dog’s medications altogether. Tell your vet whenever your dog starts a new medication or supplement so they can help you check for interactions.

How do I get hydroxyzine for my dog?

You usually can get hydroxyzine from your veterinarian at their office. They might also prescribe hydroxyzine for your dog and you will need to pick it up from your local pharmacy.