Imodium For Dogs: Uses, Dosage, & Side Effects

During a doggie diarrhea episode, many canine owners reach for medication to clear it up. One such medicine is loperamide, also known as Imodium. It is readily available at pharmacies and effective in putting a stop to diarrhea in humans. The corollary to that is its efficacy in other mammals, such as canines.

While there is some truth to this, dog owners should exercise caution before administering Imodium to their canines. Here is some information about loperamide that you should have:

Imodium defined

Loperamide is a synthetic opioid. We associate opioids with medications like morphine. Many people become concerned when discovering that Imodium is an opioid because of the stories they hear about people becoming addicted to them. However, loperamide is nothing like its counterparts as it has no notable pain-relieving effects, meaning that it is unlikely to be habit-forming or addictive.

All opioids slow down movement in the gut, thereby allowing its contents more time to bind sufficiently to form normal stools. Loperamide is effective in performing this task, making it a go-to medication for anyone experiencing diarrhea. Imodium can be purchased in two forms: 2 mg capsules or liquid.

All that being said, can you give a dog Imodium when they have diarrhea? Here is a close look at loperamide and what using it means for your dog.

Uses of Imodium

Loperamide is indicated for use in diarrhea cases, and the same context applies when administering it to your dog. It functioned identically in a dog’s digestive system as it would in yours. However, a dog’s gut is different from a human’s, making dosing a canine with loperamide less sure to have the desired effect.

Experts do not recommend turning to Imodium to treat a dog’s diarrhea without phoning or seeing a veterinarian first. A vet can determine if it is likely to pass or needs intervention based on a description of your dog’s upset tummy. They might recommend a dose of Imodium to settle an upset tummy.

Use caution when administering loperamide to your pup. You do not know what caused diarrhea, so it is hard to decide on treating it. For example, diarrhea from chomping through your garbage should pass without any intervention. However, it could also be the result of a parasite or bacterial infection. Only once you have strong suspicions about the cause is it time to think about dosing your doggie with Imodium.

Dosages

It is possible for dogs to overdose on Imodium, and it could be serious in severe cases. To avoid this, speak to your vet and let them advise you how much loperamide to give your dog.

A standard rule of thumb is a 2 mg Imodium capsule for a 45-50-pound dog 2-3 times daily for no longer than five days. The owner of a 25-pound dog will halve the dosage. However, for better accuracy, use Imodium liquid, administering 0.1 mg per 2 kg (2.2 lb.) in body weight.

Most dogs do not like medication, and getting it down their gullets can be a challenge. When using capsules, put them into a ball of uncooked ground beef or bread. Coat a biscuit or ball of bread in Imodium liquid to get it down the hatch.

Side effects

While some side effects may crop up from using Imodium, most are exacerbated by overdosing. Dog owners may be a little heavy-handed with loperamide because they want diarrhea to stop. It is uncomfortable for your canine and not much fun to clean up afterward. However, there may be some consequences for your haste. If you suspect your dog is experiencing side effects, consult your vet for assistance.

Imodium can work too well, causing constipation. In extreme cases, this can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or fecal impaction. Therefore, use it sparingly.

Like any opioid, Imodium has a sedative effect, which leaves your dog drowsy and lethargic. In severe instances, you might have difficulty getting your doggie to wake up.

Your dog might experience gas and flatulence after a dose of loperamide. This could be accompanied by bloating of the stomach and mild pain. Some dogs become nauseous after ingesting Imodium.

Avoiding Imodium

Herding breed dogs have a genetic factor that makes it impossible for them to break down Imodium when it enters their system. This could cause serious long-term harm. If you suspect your mixed breed doggie has some herding breed heritage, inform your vet.

Generally, dogs weighing less than 20 pounds, puppies, elderly canines, pregnant and lactating females, and dogs with conditions like kidney disease should not take Imodium. Exercise caution if your dog falls into one of these categories. Ask your vet’s advice about alternative treatments for diarrhea.