Effective Ways to Stop Nausea in Dogs
Nausea in dogs can arise from various causes such as motion sickness, inner ear disorders, or underlying health conditions. Fortunately, several effective treatments can bring your dog relief. One of the most commonly used remedies is Dramamine, or dimenhydrinate, an antihistamine that’s helpful in controlling symptoms of motion-related discomfort.
How Dramamine Works
Dramamine acts as an antihistamine and prevents the vomiting center in the brain from being triggered. This is particularly effective during travel or in cases of vestibular disease in aging dogs.
Indications for Use
- Travel-related nausea (car, plane, or boat)
- Vestibular disease that causes balance and coordination issues
- Symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, whining, or restlessness
Dosage Guidelines
The typical dosage for dogs is 2 to 4 mg per pound of body weight every eight hours. Here are some examples:
- Small dogs: ~25 mg
- Large dogs: ~50 mg
Always consult your veterinarian for accurate dosing, especially for small breeds or dogs under six pounds.
How to Administer Dramamine
- Available forms: tablets (regular and chewable), oral liquid
- Can be given with or without food (food helps prevent upset stomach)
- Best administered 30-60 minutes before travel
Possible Side Effects
Most dogs tolerate Dramamine well, but side effects can occur:
- Common: Drowsiness, dry mouth, increased thirst
- Less common: Vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite
- Rare: Hyperactivity, seizures (in overdose cases)
- Severe: Allergic reactions (e.g., facial swelling, hives, difficulty breathing)
Health Conditions Warranting Caution
Do not administer Dramamine without veterinary guidance if your dog has:
- Glaucoma
- Seizures
- Thyroid issues
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Enlarged prostate
- Urinary or gastrointestinal blockages
- Respiratory disorders like asthma
Drug Interactions
Inform your vet about any other medications or supplements your dog takes. Dramamine may interact with:
- Other antihistamines or sedatives
- Muscle relaxants
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam)
- Opioids
- Antidepressants
- Seizure medications
Whenever to Avoid Dramamine
- Neonatal dogs
- Dogs allergic to antihistamines
- Pets undergoing allergy skin testing (within 2 weeks)
Alternative Treatments
If Dramamine is ineffective or not well-tolerated, consider:
- Other antihistamines: Cetirizine, Benadryl, Chlorphenamine
- Prescription meds: Cerenia (maropitant citrate), trazodone, gabapentin
- Natural methods: Ginger supplements, calming backpacks, gradual travel desensitization
Best Practices for Use
- Always use formulations with dimenhydrinate only
- Avoid “non-drowsy” or combination products
- Monitor for side effects if trying Dramamine for the first time
- Store at room temperature and keep liquids from freezing
- In case of overdose, contact a vet or emergency veterinary facility immediately
Conclusion
Dramamine can be an effective and safe option to stop nausea in dogs, especially for motion sickness. However, it should always be used under veterinary supervision, particularly due to possible interactions and side effects. For persistent nausea, consult your veterinarian to determine the best comprehensive plan, which may include medications, non-drug solutions, or lifestyle changes.
