What Is the Correct Dosage of Diazepam (Valium) for Dogs?
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Diazepam is a medicine that affects the central nervous system. It's usually used as a sedative, muscle-relaxant or anti-anxiety medicine for dogs. If your dog is going through some health issues and your vet has recommended using diazepam, this is the perfect article for you.
In this AnimalWised article we're going to give you the complete guide to this medicine for dogs. We'll go through its uses, correct dosage of diazepam for dogs, side effects, storage and more. Keep reading to learn more!
What is diazepam?
Diazepam is a medicine that affects the central nervous system. It mainly causes a relaxing, sedative and anticonvulsant effect. It is used in human medicine and also in veterinary medicine. Brand names include: Valium, Diastat, E Pam Tab, Meva and Vivol.
Diazepam belongs to the group of benzodiazepines, which are drugs that act on the central nervous system. It acts as a depressant of this system, achieving a quick sedative, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant and relaxing effect on the dog. Therefore, this medicine can be used for both physical and psychological disorders.
Diazepam for dogs is available in various formats for administration: oral or injectable. In the either case, the veterinarian will decide depending on your dog's condition.
As diazepam is also used for humans, many people wonder if they can give human diazepam to their dog. The answer is no. To avoid further health issues you must follow your veterinarian's close instructions. They will choose the correct dosage and even the brand. Never self medicate your dog as it may bring more issues than they had before. In the worst cases, it can result in their deaths.
What is diazepam for dogs for?
Diazepam is used to treat certain disorders with a psychological origin. These include:
- Nervousness
- Anxiety
- Phobias
- Certain behavioral problems
- Seizures
- Pre-anesthetic protocol
As always, the veterinarian is the only professional that can properly diagnose your dog and choose the correct medication for their condition.
To learn more about home remedies for anxious dogs, we recommend you read our articles on why your dog is anxious and how to calm a dog down. You can also watch our video below about how to calm your dog down when they're feeling anxious.
Diazepam dosage for dogs
It is very important that we scrupulously follow the veterinarian's instructions regarding dosage and administration guidelines. The dose will depend on your dog's weight, the administration process of the drug and the pathology to be treated.
For a rough estimate, administration through an injection to control seizure disorders is administered at a rate of 0.5 mg per kg of your dog's weight. Oral administration of diazepam in tablets for dogs can be up to 2.2 mg per kg.
We reiterate the importance of going to the veterinarian so that they can properly indicate the most suitable dose of diazepam for your dog and their issue. Incorrect administration can have very serious consequences.
Diazepam contraindications for dogs
Regarding its contraindications, it is not recommended to give diazepam to puppies, elderly dogs, or any dog with liver, heart or kidney problems. It is also not usually recommended for epileptic, debilitated, dehydrated, anemic dogs, dogs with serious respiratory difficulties or with obesity. Of course, it cannot be given to animals that have previously manifested any allergic reaction to diazepam.
When it comes to dogs with glaucoma, the veterinarian will have to determine the relevance of the treatment, evaluating the advantages and disadvantages. The same happens with pregnant or lactating females. Likewise, if your dog is taking any other drugs, you must let your veterinarian know as there can be certain issues with two intersecting drugs.
Diazepam side effects for dogs
As we've previously mentioned, diazepam will interfere with your dog's behavior. It's very important to follow your veterinarian's instructions closely as we're dealing with medications that can have side effects and negative consequences when not handled properly. Some of these side effects may include:
- Drop in blood pressure
- Cardiac abnormalities
- Unwanted behavioral changes
- Lack coordination or disorientation
When given to a dog for a long time, it's possible for them to become dependant on this medication. Overdose on diazepam can lead to a depression in the central nervous system, causing confusion or even putting the dog in a coma. It can also decrease their respiratory and heart rate.
If you notice any abnormalities, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
How to store diazepam
You must store diazepam for dogs at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). Remember to also protect it from direct sunlight. The injectable form should not be stored in plastic bottles or syringes.
This article is purely informative. AnimalWised does not have the authority to prescribe any veterinary treatment or create a diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain.
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