Dramamine for Dogs - Is It Safe? Dosage and Side Effects

If you take your dog along for car rides every once in a while, chances are your dog might have become sick at least once before. If nausea or car sickness is common for your furry pal, you might want to discuss the issue with their veterinarian, who might recommend treatments such as Dramamine. But is Dramamine safe for your dog, and why or why not?

What is Dramamine?

Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) treats motion sickness and nausea. Many humans take Dramamine to reduce the effects of carsickness, and in some cases, people may give the medicine to dogs for similar symptoms.

Is Dramamine safe for dogs?

It depends. Your dog’s age, weight, medical history and any current medication(s) they take may affect the safety and efficacy of Dramamine use. Talk to their veterinarian about potential risk factors, which may include but are not limited to:

Pregnancy
Nursing
Allergies to medications
Seizure history
Serious health conditions, including chronic diseases

Dosage

Because not all dogs are the same, dosage will vary. For personalized advice regarding Dramamine dosage, contact your dog’s veterinarian.

Side Effects

According to VCA Hospitals, your dog might experience side effects with Dramamine, including but not limited to:

Diarrhea
Vomiting
Appetite change
Sleepiness
Dry mouth
Urination difficulty

If you suspect your dog is experiencing any side effects from Dramamine, call their veterinarian immediately. Some side effects could indicate serious health concerns.

Final Thoughts

While Dramamine can help relieve nausea symptoms for many dogs, it can pose harm to others. If motion sickness is a serious issue for your dog, you may need to rethink their lifestyle, including their diet, your travel habits, their health history and any additional medications they take.

Remember that your pet’s veterinarian is the best resource when it comes to advice on any medication or treatment plan, including the use of Dramamine to combat nausea and motion sickness.

Disclaimer: This article does not constitute professional medical advice, nor can it replace the advice of a licensed professional.