Are Human Medicines Safe for Dogs?

Although humans and dogs look quite different, they actually have very similar bodies. In many cases, dogs can use human medications and humans can use dog medications. However, some human medicines can be lethal to dogs, and you should never give your dog medicine without first consulting a veterinarian.

Medicine for Dogs

Dogs and humans share the same basic body systems, and many medications that work for humans work for dogs. However, dogs' digestive systems contain different enzymes from humans' digestive systems, which means dogs may be unable to break down or metabolize certain human medications. Additionally, dosing for dogs may be dramatically different than for humans. A human dose could easily kill a toy dog, but might be ineffective for a very large dog. Dogs, like humans, can also have allergic reactions to medications, so no medication is guaranteed safe.

Safe Medications

Diphenhydramine—marketed as Benadryl—is safe for dogs and can help with skin allergies. Some over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications are also safe for pets, and include drugs such as Immodium and Pepto-Bismol. Some human antibiotics such as penicillin are safe, though the dosage may be different. Dogs can also have Dramamine, an anti-motion-sickness medication. Glucosamine helps alleviate the pain of arthritis and other joint problems and is safe for dogs.

Unsafe Medications

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen are potentially lethal to dogs; never give your dogs these medications. Acetaminophen is also unsafe. Dogs should never get psychoactive drugs such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, though there are some dog-safe versions of these medications that your vet can prescribe. Diabetes drugs, vitamin D supplements and the cancer medication Fluorouracil also pose significant dangers. Do not give dogs iron supplements, coffee or anything containing caffeine.

Seeking Veterinary Care

Even if a drug is potentially safe for dogs, the dosage can vary greatly from dog to dog. Any condition that warrants medication warrants a trip to the veterinarian, so call your vet before giving your dog any human drug. Antibiotics are particularly dangerous because you can create treatment-resistant infections in your dog if you give the wrong antibiotic or the wrong dose.