Cat & Dog - Antihistamines

Why has my veterinary surgeon prescribed this medicine?

Antihistamines are useful for their antipruritic (anti-itch), anti-allergic and sedative effects. Your veterinary surgeon may prescribe this medication to prevent itching in dogs and cats or for managing cats that excessively groom themselves. Behavioural conditions involving compulsive scratching and self-trauma may also respond to antihistamine therapy. Antihistamines may also be used for allergic respiratory (breathing) conditions or sedation prior to car travel.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinary surgeon. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• This medication may be given with food.
• 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 the pet more medicine than directed.
• DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• Wash your hands after handling the medication.
• In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately and show the package leaflet or label to the physician.

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 the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

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.

Potential side effects

• Your pet may appear drowsy. This effect may decrease with time.
• Your pet may experience dry mouth and retain its urine for longer than usual. Notify your veterinary surgeon if these effects are seen.
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinary surgeon.

Possible drug interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinary surgeon what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often your veterinary surgeon may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinary surgeon may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• Drugs may interact such that they can cause an increased or decreased effect or side effects. Although drug interactions may occur, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring.
• Contact your veterinary surgeon if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.