What to Do If Your Dog Eats Medication

Medication Ingestion Is a Top Dog Poisoning Emergency

Human medications are one of the most common causes of dog poisoning. Dogs are attracted to pills — especially coated tablets that smell sweet. Even medications that are safe for humans can be lethal for dogs at human doses.

Most Dangerous Human Medications for Dogs

• NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Advil, naproxen/Aleve): Cause stomach ulcers and kidney failure. Even one tablet can be dangerous for small dogs.
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Causes liver failure and red blood cell damage. Extremely toxic to dogs.
• Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs): Cause serotonin syndrome — tremors, seizures, hyperthermia.
• ADHD medications (Adderall, Ritalin): Cause dangerous cardiovascular stimulation and hyperthermia.
• Sleep aids (Benadryl in large doses, Ambien): Cause CNS depression or paradoxical excitement.
• Blood pressure medications: Can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure and heart rate.
• Diabetes medications: Can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia.

What to Do Immediately

1. Identify the medication: Note the drug name, strength, and how many tablets are missing
2. Call immediately:
   • ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
   • Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
   • Your emergency vet
3. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance
4. Go to the emergency vet with the medication bottle

Signs of Medication Toxicity

Vary by drug type, but general signs include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Lethargy or agitation
• Tremors or seizures
• Rapid or slow heart rate
• Pale gums
• Collapse

Pet Medications: Overdose Risk

Pet medications can also be dangerous in overdose. Flea and tick preventives, pain medications, and supplements can all cause toxicity if a dog gets into the supply. Treat any suspected pet medication overdose the same as human medication — call poison control and go to the vet.

💊 Recommended: Activated Charcoal for Dogs and Cats — Use only under veterinary or poison control guidance. Non-GMO powder, 3.53 oz.

🧰 Recommended: EVERLIT Pet Medic First Aid Kit (95 Pcs) — Keep one at home and one in the car.

Prevention

• Store all medications in closed cabinets out of reach
• Never leave pills on counters or nightstands
• Pick up dropped pills immediately
• Never give human medication to your dog without vet guidance
• Store pet medications separately from human medications