Temaril-P tablets, a mix of antihistamine and corticosteroid, are commonly prescribed to ease itching and inflammation associated with common skin disorders in dogs. Following are the precautionary measures that you need to take when giving this medication to dogs.
Warning
Long-term use of Temaril-P tablets has been linked to Cushing’s disease and diabetes in dogs and cats.
When it comes to alleviating itchiness and decreasing inflammation associated with common canine skin problems such as eczema, prescribing Temaril-P tablets is usually the first line of treatment. Skin problems such as pustular pruritus, dermatitis and otitis resulting from a parasitic infection or an allergic reaction that cause excessive scratching, can be treated with this oral medication. Temaril-P is also prescribed to relieve cough infections such as tracheobronchitis in dogs.
Precautionary Measures
Keep the following things in mind before using Temaril-P tablets for the prescribed treatment of your pet.
- Before beginning the course of Temaril-P tablets, certain baseline blood tests need to be performed on your pet to evaluate his health status. These blood tests help to assess organ function and detect markers of organ damage. It is necessary that various organs, particularly the kidneys, are functioning optimally before starting the dosage.
- The drug has to be taken two times a day. The dosage will be prescribed depending upon the weight of your pet. Dogs who weigh not more than 10 lbs, should be given half a tablet. Dogs that weigh between 11 to 20 lbs are given 1 tablet, whereas those who weigh between 21 and 40 lbs are administered 2 tablets. Dogs weighing 41 lbs or more are given 3 tablets.
- As excessive thirst and frequent urination has been associated with the use of these tablets in dogs. Make it a point that your pet has a convenient supply of drinking water all the time and an easy access to the washroom.
- In case the Temaril-P tablets have been prescribed for an extended duration of time, your pet will need blood tests on a regular basis to analyze the impact of the drug on the body. In case blood testing detects any abnormal finding, your veterinarian may decide whether to continue with the recommended course of treatment or not.
- Also, sudden discontinuation of the medication is not advisable when it is given on a long-term basis. It is advisable to taper down the dosage slowly to prevent the occurrence of withdrawal symptoms.
- Stomach upset is one of the side effects associated with the use of Temaril-P tablets. However, if it is given along with meals, your pet is unlikely to suffer from stomach upset.
- Temaril-P can impair a dog’s immune system; hence the medication has to be avoided if your pet is suffering from a severe fungal or viral infection. Also, when it comes to treating bacterial infections, make sure the dog is also put on an antibiotic course. This is because taking the medication alone can also aggravate the infection.
- The medication should be administered in the right dosage as described by your vet. It is not appropriate to give the tablet in doses that is less or more than prescribed. Also, prior consultation with the vet is necessary before you decide to discontinue the medication.
- Temaril-P tablets are not recommended in pregnant dogs and for those having diabetes. Dogs with allergy to Temaril-P tablet or any of its constituents should also not be given this medication. Stomach ulcers and liver or kidney problems also make the drug inapplicable for usage. Dogs who have suffered from seizures or epilepsy in the past should not be given this medication.
- Low dose prednisone or hydroxyzine may be recommended as a substitute for Temaril-P tablets.
- Drug interactions with Temaril-P tablets are a possibility that can worsen the side effects and may even reduce the efficacy of the drug. So, talk to your vet before giving any OTC or herbal medication to your pet.
On the whole, you need to exercise caution when giving this drug to your dog. Any unusual side effects such as drowsiness or seizures – that have been linked to overdose – must be immediately notified to your veterinarian.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a veterinarian.
