According to an article by Ahna Brutlag, DVM, published in veterinary publication Firstline, almost half of the calls received at Pet Poison Helpline involve human medications—both over-the-counter and prescription. Sometimes dogs chew into pill bottles or well intentioned pet owners accidentally mix up packages and give their pets a human medication. However pet poisonings from human medications happen, they can be serious.
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Acetaminophen
- Antidepressants (e.g., Effexor, Cymbalta, Prozac, Lexapro)
- ADD and ADHD medications (e.g., Concerta, Adderall, Ritalin)
- Benzodiazepines and sleep aids (e.g., Xanax, Klonopin, Ambien, Lunesta)
- Birth control (e.g., estrogen, estradiol, progesterone)
- ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Zestril, Altace)
- Beta-blockers (e.g., Tenormin, Toprol, Coreg)
- Thyroid hormones (e.g., Armour desiccated thyroid, Synthroid)
- Cholesterol lowering agents (e.g., Lipitor, Zocor, Crestor)
About Pet Poison Helpline
Pet Poison Helpline is a service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for pet owners, veterinarians and veterinary technicians that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. Staff can provide treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline’s fee of $35 per incident includes follow-up consultation for the duration of the poison case. Pet Poison Helpline is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Additional information can be found online at www.petpoisonhelpline.com.
