Kennel cough, a collapsing trachea, bronchitis due to old age, and a heart enlargement, can all trigger a dry, hacking cough in dogs. A veterinarian might prescribe Hycodan, also known under the generic name hydrocodone bitartrate. Because this narcotic cough suppressant isn't approved for pet use by the Federal Drug Administration, it's essential to carefully follow your veterinarian's instructions to restore your pet companion's health.
Dosage and Side Effects
Hycodan is administered orally at a typical rate of two to four times at the veterinarian-recommended dosage. The medicine acts through the brain, and can cause side effects, such as drowsiness, sedation, constipation, vomiting, nausea, drying of oral secretions and an upset stomach. These side effects can cause discomfort to your per companion and are best reported to your veterinarian.
Safety Considerations
Hycodan should not be mixed with antihistamines or other tranquilizers. Avoid giving your dog aged cheese products, because these can interact with the medication and trigger problems with your dog's blood pressure. Pregnant dogs, and dogs with pneumonia, blood disorder, or liver, kidney, or vascular disease, should not be given this medication. Dehydrated dogs, very young and old dog, and dogs with toxic or obstructive diarrheas should also steer clear of Hycodan.
References
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Kimberly Caines is a well traveled model, writer and licensed physical fitness trainer who was first published in 1997. Her work has appeared in the Dutch newspaper "De Overschiese Krant" and on various websites. Caines holds a degree in journalism from Mercurius College in Holland and is writing her first novel.