Coughing in dogs can be a distressing symptom for both pets and their owners, often signaling underlying respiratory issues. When it comes to managing canine cough, veterinarians may consider various treatment options. Among these, cough tablets for dogs containing a combination of dextromethorphan and guaifenesin are sometimes prescribed. This medication aims to provide temporary relief from cough symptoms, particularly those associated with upper respiratory infections like the common canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD), often referred to as kennel cough.
It’s important for dog owners to understand how these tablets work, their potential side effects, and crucial safety considerations. This article delves into the specifics of cough tablets for dogs, offering insights for informed care.
What Are Cough Tablets Used For in Dogs?
Cough tablets for dogs, featuring active ingredients dextromethorphan and guaifenesin, are veterinary medications designed to temporarily alleviate coughing in dogs. Veterinarians commonly prescribe them for conditions such as canine infectious respiratory disease (CIRD), a broad term encompassing various viral and bacterial infections affecting a dog’s upper respiratory system. Dogs can be simultaneously infected with multiple pathogens.
These cough tablets are generally suitable for dogs aged 3 months and older, weighing at least 5 pounds. They are typically administered for short-term relief of coughs stemming from acute upper respiratory infections, rather than for chronic coughs related to other medical conditions. The effects of Cough Tablets are transient, ceasing to be active within a 24-hour period.
Caution is advised when using Cough Tablets in dogs suffering from chronic coughs or those with impaired liver function, as the medication’s effects might be prolonged in such cases. Before administering any new medication, it is crucial to discuss your dog’s complete health profile, including any vitamins, supplements, herbal remedies, or flea and tick treatments, along with existing medical conditions, with your veterinarian.
FDA Approval Status of Cough Tablets
While the combination of dextromethorphan and guaifenesin is FDA-approved for human use under brand names like Mucinex DM and Robitussin DM, Cough Tablets specifically formulated for dogs are not currently FDA-approved. However, their use in veterinary practice is widespread, and veterinarians can legally prescribe human medications for animals under certain circumstances. This practice is known as extra-label or off-label use, meaning the drug is being used in a way not explicitly stated on its label.
It is also important to note that the use of Cough Tablets may be prohibited in certain animal competitions. Always verify the specific rules and regulations of any competition your pet might participate in while undergoing treatment with this medication. Consulting your veterinarian is the best way to determine if Cough Tablets are an appropriate choice for your dog.
How Cough Tablets Work in Dogs
Cough Tablets for dogs are a combination medication containing two key active ingredients:
- Dextromethorphan: This ingredient acts as an antitussive, meaning it works by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain’s cough center.
- Guaifenesin: As an expectorant, guaifenesin aids in thinning the mucus within the air passages. This action helps to make a cough more productive, facilitating the respiratory system’s ability to clear mucus from the airways.
How To Administer Cough Tablets to Dogs
Always adhere to the instructions provided on the drug label or as directed by your veterinarian. This medication can be given with or without food; however, administering it with food may help reduce the risk of digestive upset. If your dog experiences vomiting or becomes unwell after taking Cough Tablets on an empty stomach, consider giving the subsequent dose with food or a small treat.
Due to the short duration of their effects, Cough Tablets are typically administered every four hours to maintain consistent cough relief for dogs.
What to Do If a Dose is Missed
If you forget to give a dose of Cough Tablets, consult your veterinarian for guidance. Generally, your vet might advise you to administer the missed dose as soon as you remember. If your pet’s next scheduled dose is approaching, it’s usually best to skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never give extra or double doses to compensate for a missed one.
Potential Side Effects of Cough Tablets for Dogs
Cough Tablets are generally well-tolerated by dogs. The limited occurrence of adverse effects is thought to be partly due to dextromethorphan’s poor absorption in dogs when taken orally, as indicated by some drug absorption studies.
Common side effects that may be observed include:
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
If these side effects become severe, worsen, or persist, it is important to contact your veterinarian.
More serious side effects that may indicate a significant problem include extreme agitation or nervousness, rapid heartbeat, collapse, muscle rigidity, tremors, or difficulty walking. If any of these symptoms appear, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Important Considerations Regarding Human Side Effects
Dextromethorphan/guaifenesin is also an FDA-approved medication for humans, available under various brand and generic names, often with different dosages than those prescribed by a veterinarian for pets. For safety reasons, humans should never use medication dispensed for their pets, and pets should not be given any over-the-counter human medication. Human formulations of dextromethorphan/guaifenesin may contain additional ingredients, such as xylitol, which are highly toxic to dogs.
Individuals allergic to this medication should avoid handling it. Regular hand washing after handling the medication is recommended. If accidental ingestion of pet medication occurs, seek immediate medical attention and contact Poison Control at 800-222-1222.
Monitoring Your Pet’s Health
While no specific routine monitoring is typically required for this medication, your veterinarian might suggest periodic testing based on your dog’s individual health needs, other medications they might be taking, or the underlying condition for which the cough tablets were prescribed.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
You should contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:
- Severe side effects (as listed above)
- Your pet’s condition deteriorates or does not improve with treatment
- Signs of an overdose are observed or suspected
- You have further questions or concerns regarding the use of Cough Tablets
Cough Tablet Overdose Concerns in Dogs
An overdose of Cough Tablets in dogs can potentially lead to symptoms such as agitation, hallucinations, nervousness, pupil dilation, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you suspect your dog has ingested an excessive amount of this medication, seek emergency veterinary care immediately or contact an animal poison control center. Please be aware that consultation fees may apply.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435
How to Store Cough Tablets for Dogs
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the medication’s efficacy and safety:
- Store the medication at room temperature.
- Keep the container tightly closed to protect it from moisture and light.
- Always verify specific storage requirements by referring to the prescription label.
- Ensure the medication is kept out of reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cough Tablets for Dogs
How effective are Cough Tablets for dogs?
While specific studies evaluating the effectiveness of Cough Tablets in dogs have not been extensively published, many veterinarians believe this medication offers mild to moderate relief by helping to suppress cough symptoms in dogs diagnosed with canine infectious respiratory disease (kennel cough).
How quickly do Cough Tablets work in dogs?
Most dogs begin to show some improvement in their cough within one to two hours after taking Cough Tablets. However, their antitussive effects are short-lived. Therefore, it is crucial to administer doses every four hours to maintain consistent relief from coughing.
The content in this article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals. It does not replace professional veterinary advice. No compensation has been received from medication manufacturers for the creation of this article.
References
KuKanich B, Papich MG. Plasma profile and pharmacokinetics of dextromethorphan after intravenous and oral administration in healthy dogs. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 2004;27(5):337-341.
Plumb DC. Dextromethorphan. Plumb’s Veterinary Drugs. Updated September 2020. Accessed March 25, 2025.
Plumb DC. Dextromethorphan/Guaifenesin. Plumb’s Veterinary Drugs. Accessed March 25, 2025.
