Can Dogs Take Mucinex?
When your dog becomes ill, getting them the proper medical treatment is imperative. Sometimes, your dog can develop a health problem that may be similar to ones humans can catch such as breathing illnesses, throat phlegm, or even an ongoing cough.
In this case, you may wonder if giving your dog the same medication you would use on yourself to relieve your dog’s symptoms is okay.
Mucinex is a brand-name over-the-counter medication commonly used to treat nasal congestion, runny nose, chronic coughs, chest congestion, and even some long-term breathing problems.
While Mucinex products can be beneficial for humans, it is also popular in veterinary medicine. It is important to follow package instructions and proper dosage when giving your dog Mucinex to avoid serious side effects.
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In this article, we will dive deeper into what Mucinex is, how to give your dog Mucinex and the side effects of administering human cold medicines to your pup. Keep reading for all the information!
What Is Mucinex?
Mucinex is a medication intended for temporary use for the relief of coughs and congestion which can be caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other breathing illnesses. It works by using the ingredient Guaifenesin, which is an expectorant.
Expectorants help to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, which results in clearing congestion and making breathing easier.
There are a few different types of Mucinex such as Mucinex Sinus, Mucinex Cough & Chest Congestion, Mucinex Multi-Symptom, and Children’s Mucinex. These different medications are designed to treat specific symptoms. Also, different types of Mucinex products contain various additional ingredients, so it’s important to be conscious for your dog’s sake.
Should You Give Your Dog Mucinex?
Giving your dog a dosage of any medicine should not be taken lightly, especially human medications. Before carelessly providing your dog with a dose of Mucinex, it is a good idea to consult with your vet to ensure this medication is going to be beneficial for your dog’s health and avoid any adverse reactions.
Check out the following information to know when giving your dog Mucinex.
Get In Touch With Your Veterinarian First
When your dog needs medical attention, you probably want to give them immediate relief. While this is understandable, the best thing for your dog is to get professional care to understand the possible drug interactions with your dog’s immune system.
For example, if your dog has a chronic respiratory issue such as kennel cough or chronic bronchitis, it may seem like they are just experiencing cold symptoms. In a case like this, over-the-counter cough suppressants would only mask the symptoms, not cure the issue. Visiting the vet will ensure your pup receives the appropriate treatment, whether it is a prescription drug or simple homeopathic remedies.
Your vet will also be able to determine if Mucinex cough medicine will react with any other medications your dog could be taking. Some medications do not mix well with the Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan that is in Mucinex.
Check The Ingredients
As we mentioned earlier, different types of Mucinex have different active and inactive ingredients that can act as toxic substances to your dog. Guaifenesin is the main drug in Mucinex and has been proven safe and effective for treating your dog’s cough with a safe dose.
The Multi-Symptom Mucinex added ingredients such as Acetometophine, Diphenhydramine HCL, and Phenylephrine to compete with other brand names such as Robitussin DM and other flu medications. These other ingredients can intensely jeopardize your dog’s health, so it’s very important to read the labels on the medication.
Give Proper Dosage
Just like with any medication, it is important to follow dosage directions. Your dog’s healthcare provider will give you the correct dosage information and a schedule for upcoming doses and what to do for a missed dose.
When it comes to a general dose, you can follow the rule of thumb that states: 20mg per pound of body weight taken every 12 hours.
Mucinex exists in a variety of forms, including liquids, long-acting tablets, or dissolving granules. If your dog is taking tablets, you should not crush or break them.
Crushing the pills could release more of the drug which can increase the risk of side effects. Also, make sure your dog is hydrated with enough fluids when giving medication.
How To Give Your Dog Mucinex?
The best way to administer a dose of this medicine is using the liquid form. This allows you to give the full dose of Mucinex quickly and easily without worrying about your dog spitting out the pill. If you are giving your dog the pill form, you can mix it in your dog’s food so they do not spit out the pill.
In some cases, it may take some trial and error to find out what works best specifically for your dog. Both options are effective as long as your dog takes the proper amount.
What Are The Side Effects Of Giving Your Dog Mucinex?
According to the Pet Poison Helpline, the possible side effects of giving your dog Mucinex can include dizziness, confusion, trouble breathing, stomach pain, vomiting, nausea, and drowsiness. Additional side effects are allergic reactions, which can come with symptoms such as itching, hives, rashes, and swelling in the face.
Taking too much Mucinex, or using it long-term for your dog, can also have some serious side effects. Kidney damage, liver disease, heart disease, increased heart rate, and heart conditions such as arrhythmias. You should not give your dog Mucinex for more than 7 days in a row. If your dog’s cough persists, you should reach out to your veterinarian.
Summary
It can be scary when your dog starts exhibiting symptoms of being sick. As a proactive and responsible pet parent, you want to spring into action to get them the quickest and most effective solution possible.
Dogs can display cold-like symptoms such as a productive cough, nasal discharge, and chest congestion, just like humans. Since dogs can have sicknesses like humans, many dog owners wonder if human cold medications will work for their dogs.
Mucinex is a medication that uses Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan to relieve coughs and congestion which can be caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other breathing illnesses.
It is a popular over-the-counter brand that can be found at most local drug stores. Mucinex can be used in veterinary medicine as long as a few rules are followed. Before giving your dog Mucinex, you should get your vet’s diagnosis and opinion, check the ingredients, and give the proper dosage.
When giving your dog Mucinex, you can use liquid or pill forms depending on what works best. You should not give your dog Mucinex for more than 7 days in a row. If their condition persists, it’s time to visit the vet once again.
We hope you have enjoyed “Can Dogs Take Mucinex?” Stay tuned for more articles to continue being a responsible pet parent!
*All opinions in this post must corroborated by your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-63818/mucinex-oral/details