Meclizine for dogs and cats

Meclizine (Bonine®, Antivert®) for Cats and Dogs

Overview of Meclizine (Bonine®, Antivert®) for Canines and Felines

Meclizine, commonly known by the brand names of Bonine or Antivert, is an antihistamine commonly used in dogs and cats to treat allergies and diseases that affect the equilibrium.
In general, antihistamines are most often used in the treatment of allergies. However, some of these drugs also are used to reduce the sensation of motion sickness, often caused by travel or diseases of the inner ear. Many dogs develop carsickness and drool excessively or vomit during an automobile, boat or airplane ride.
Meclizine is an antihistamine that inhibits stimulation of the vestibular system of the brain. The vestibular system is located within the inner ear and is responsible for detecting motion. Excessive or overstimulation of the vestibular system can result in dizziness, nausea and stumbling.
This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an extra-label drug.
Meclizine is available over the counter but should not be administered unless under the supervision and guidance of a veterinarian.

This drug is registered for use in humans only.
Human formulations: Bonine® (Leeming), Antivert® (Roerig) and various generic brands.
Veterinary formulations: None

The most common use for meclizine is to reduce symptoms associated with motion sickness in dogs or in cats.
Meclizine can also be used to help with nausea unrelated to motion sickness, such as that related to inner ear (vestibular) disease.

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, meclizine can cause side effects in some animals.
Meclizine should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.
Meclizine should be used with caution in animals with glaucoma, prostate gland enlargement and certain stomach and urinary bladder abnormalities.
Meclizine should also be avoided in animals with overactive thyroids, seizure disorder, heart disease or high blood pressure.
Meclizine may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with meclizine. Such drugs include heparin, tranquilizers and sedatives.
Adverse effects include sedation, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea or lack of appetite.

Meclizine is available in 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg and 50 mg tablets and 25 mg capsules.

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.
For dogs, a common dose is 25 mg per dog once daily.
For cats, 12.5 mg total dose per cat once daily.
The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse.