Antacids

When do dogs need antacids?

Dogs can produce too much stomach acid or have a disturbed stomach lining for various reasons. This can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss or blood in the stool. Some possible causes of these problems are

• Stress
• Food intolerances or allergies
• Infections or parasites
• Medication such as painkillers or steroids
• Chronic diseases such as kidney failure or liver disease
• Tumors or foreign bodies in the gastrointestinal tract

If your dog shows one or more of these symptoms, you should definitely take him to the vet. They will be able to determine the exact cause and recommend the best treatment. In some cases, they may also prescribe antacids to alleviate your dog's symptoms.

What antacids are available for dogs?

There are different types of antacids that work in different ways. The most common are:

• Aluminum hydroxide: This antacid binds stomach acid and forms a gel that protects the stomach. It can also lower phosphate in the blood, which can be useful in dogs with kidney problems. The usual dose for dogs is 30 to 90 mg per kilogram of body weight every 8 to 12 hours.
• Calcium carbonate: This antacid also neutralizes stomach acid and raises the pH in the stomach. It can also serve as a source of calcium, which can be important for dogs with calcium deficiency. The usual dose for dogs is 10 to 20 mg per kilogram of body weight every 8 to 12 hours.
• Famotidine: This antacid is a so-called H2 blocker, which inhibits the formation of stomach acid. It works longer than other antacids and can also help with ulcers or reflux. The usual dose for dogs is 0.25 to 0.5 mg per kilogram of body weight once a day.
• Omeprazole: This antacid belongs to the so-called proton pump inhibitors, which also reduce the formation of stomach acid. It has an even stronger effect than famotidine and can also be used in severe cases of ulcers or reflux. The usual dose for dogs is 0.5 to 1 mg per kilogram of body weight once a day.

What are the risks of antacids in dogs?

Antacids can be helpful in dogs, but they are not without side effects. Some possible risks include:

• Indigestion: Antacids can disrupt the normal digestive process and cause constipation, diarrhea, bloating or nausea. This can happen especially if you give your dog too much or too often antacids.
• Mineral deficiency: Antacids can impair the absorption of minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium or copper. This can lead to deficiency symptoms such as anemia, weakness, hair loss or skin problems. This can happen especially if you give your dog antacids over a longer period of time.
• Interactions with other medications: Antacids can alter or weaken the effect of other medications. This can lead to undesirable effects or complications. This can happen especially if you give your dog antacids together with other medications without consulting your vet.

How can you give your dog antacids?

If your vet has prescribed antacids for your dog, you should follow their instructions exactly. Here are some general tips on how to give your dog antacids:

• Always give your dog antacids with some food or water to facilitate absorption and avoid stomach irritation.
• Always give your dog antacids at the same time of day to ensure a consistent effect.
• Do not give your dog antacids for longer than necessary to avoid overdose or long-term side effects.
• Monitor your dog for possible side effects or improvements and contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns.