Antihistamine used primarily in veterinary medicine for treating the symptoms associated with allergic disease and allergic reactions; variably effective. Use in veterinary medicine is extra label.
Diphenhydramine is the generic name for an antihistamine that has many uses in veterinary medicine. This drug is typically given as an injection to animals that are experiencing a reaction to vaccinations or blood transfusion, or other causes of anaphylaxis. The human drug Benadryl® is available over-the-counter in most pharmacies, and does have some efficacy for treating mild allergic disease in veterinary patients, however efficacy is often highly variable from patient to patient, and the liquid form of the medication is very difficult to administer to veterinary patients due to the taste. It is strongly recommended that any medication be used in consultation with your veterinarian.
Reducing itchiness associated with allergic skin disease, treating severe allergic reactions associated with blood product transfusions or vaccine reactions, pretreatment before vaccination in known reactors
Diphenhydramine prevents the binding of compounds called histamines to the body’s histamine receptors. Histamines are produced in the body and are released during periods of acute and chronic inflammation.
Store at room temperature, do not freeze.
If a dose is missed, continue with the next dosage at the scheduled time.
Overdose is uncommon but can produce excitement, seizures, depression (lethargy to coma), dryness of the mouth, respiratory depression and death.
The actions of some drugs in the anticholinergic class (i.e. atropine) may be potentiated when given with Benadryl®. Increased sedation may occur with drugs that depress the central nervous system.
In most healthy animals Benadryl® is a safe drug to use, however discuss any potential contraindications your pet may have with your veterinarian before using.
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