CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Julien Bazelle, Fear Free,
Medication: Diphenoxylate
Medication: Diphenoxylate
Your dog has been prescribed diphenoxylate for the symptomatic management of diarrhea or as an antitussive (cough suppressant).
Key points:
• This is not a licensed veterinary product. Your veterinarian will explain about off-license use of medications.
• Used to treat diarrhea or as an antitussive in dogs.
• Dosage: as directed by your veterinarian.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Diphenoxylate (dye-fen-ox-ee-layt).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK, Europe or the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug. Your veterinarian can explain off-license use of medications to you.
Class of medication
- Opioid.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my dog been prescribed diphenoxylate?
Your veterinarian has prescribed diphenoxylate to treat diarrhea. Diphenoxylate slows the movement of the intestines, reducing spasm and allowing longer for water to be resorbed into the body. Diphenoxylate also dilates airways and decreases airways secretions, reducing cough, especially in patients with tracheal collapse.
How is the medication given?
Diphenoxylate is administered orally as tablets or liquid.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Side-effects may include sedation, constipation, bloating, and breathing difficulties. Rarely, pancreatitis or neurological signs can be encountered. Let your veterinarian know if you have any concerns.
Diphenoxylate must be used cautiously in animals with liver and/or kidney disease. Diphenoxylate should not be used in pregnant or lactating bitches.
How long will my dog need to receive this medication?
Your veterinarian will advise as to how long your pet may need to be on this medication, but it’s usually a short-term therapy.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused diphenoxylate safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save diphenoxylate for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Diphenoxylate should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center immediately.
Pregnant women should not handle this product.
Will my dog need to be monitored while on diphenoxylate?
Your dog will be routinely monitored by your veterinarian while on this medication.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on diphenoxylate can be found on the package insert or by contacting your veterinarian.
Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinary surgeon may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your dog’s medication.