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Do you sometimes have trouble with stomach acid? If so, it’s common to take acid reducer medications to treat the issue. The medication can bring great relief and help you feel better! But what happens if your dog eats an acid reducer? Can acid reducer make your dog sick?
Has your dog eaten an acid reducer? Are you worried the acid reducer will make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about acid reducer medications and whether they can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Acid Reducer Medication?
There are many types of acid-reducing medications for humans. These meds are used to treat a burning feeling in the center of your chest or in your throat. The acid may become apparent when you lie down, after you eat, or when you bend over. The feeling is quite unpleasant.
Acid reducers work by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach. Many of these medications are available OTC and are effective in treating this condition.
While acid reducers are safe for humans (when used as directed), what about dogs? Can acid reducers make a dog sick?
Acid Reducers & Dogs
Acid reducers are used to reduce acid in dogs, including proton-pump inhibitors (omeprazole, pantoprazole, and esomeprazole) and histamine type-2 receptor antagonists (famotidine and ranitidine).
It is possible for a dog to overdose on acid-reducing medications.

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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Acid Reducer Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten acid reducers:
- Elevated heart rate
- Vomiting
- Pale gums
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Restlessness
- Breathing issues
- Muscle tremors
- Lack of appetite
If your dog shows any of these or other concerning symptoms, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Acid Reducer Ingestion in Dogs
The vet may try to induce vomiting or use activated charcoal to remove the medication from your dog’s system. In addition, the vet may also use gastric lavage to wash the medication from your dog’s stomach.
Your fur baby may require an IV with fluids and to administer medications. The vet will also treat other symptoms as they arise.
The prognosis is best for dogs who receive prompt medical attention after eating acid reducer medication. In the future, it’s best to keep acid reducer medicine and other medications out of your dog’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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