My 70 lbs dog just got into my labetalol, swallowed 200 mg, do I need to rush him to the vet right now?

Earlier tonight, I realized my dog managed to get into my medication and swallow about 200 mg of labetalol. He's a big dog, around 70 pounds, but I'm really concerned about how this might affect him. Do I need to rush him to the vet immediately, or should I watch for specific symptoms first?

Answer

Your dog has ingested a significant amount of labetalol, a medication used to treat high blood pressure in humans. While your dog is large, any ingestion of human medication can pose serious risks and should be treated as an emergency.

  • Contact your veterinarian immediately
  • Watch for symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or dizziness
  • Keep the medication bottle for reference

Labetalol can cause various symptoms in dogs such as low blood pressure, slow heart rate, weakness, or even collapse. With a dose of 200 mg, it's crucial to take your dog to a vet even if he seems fine initially. The vet may provide treatments to mitigate the effects or prevent absorption.

If this is an emergency, please seek immediate veterinary care.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What symptoms should I look for after my dog ingests labetalol?

    Watch for symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, low blood pressure, slow heart rate, or difficulty walking. If any of these occur, seek veterinary care immediately.

  • How do I prevent my dog from accessing my medications in the future?

    Store medications in a secure cabinet or container that your pets cannot reach. Ensuring all medications are out of sight and locked up will help prevent accidental ingestion.

  • Is there anything I can do at home to help my dog after medication ingestion?

    Avoid giving your dog any food, water, or inducing vomiting without veterinary guidance. Immediate veterinary assessment is essential to determine the right course of action.

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