What is acetaminophen?
Acetaminophen (Tylenol®, paracetamol, APAP, N-acetylparaminophenol) is a medication used for pain relief and fever reduction in people. It is a popular over-the-counter oral medication and is also available by prescription.
Acetaminophen may be the only ingredient in a medication or be part of a combination product containing other medications. These medications may include aspirin, opioids, antihistamines, decongestants, and caffeine.
Typical uses in people include the treatment of fever, pain, colds, flu, and menstrual discomfort. Acetaminophen is available in many forms, including tablets, capsules, gel caps, melt-away tablets, rectal suppositories, and liquids.
Is acetaminophen toxic to dogs?
Acetaminophen is often found in homes with dogs. Poisoning may happen when dogs get into the owner’s medications. In some cases, owners may administer acetaminophen to treat their dog’s pain. Low doses of acetaminophen may be recommended in dogs for certain indications, but should only be given under the direction of a veterinarian.
What are the signs of acetaminophen poisoning in dogs?
Dogs exposed to acetaminophen are likely to develop liver damage at lower doses and red blood cell changes at higher doses. Small breed dogs may also be at risk for decreased tear production (dry eye) secondary to acetaminophen poisoning. Dogs can develop liver damage within several days after ingestion of small doses of acetaminophen.
Signs of acetaminophen poisoning can vary depending on the dose, and include:
- Stomach upset
- Decreased or no appetite
- Depression
- Elevated heart rate
- Yellow discoloration of the skin, gums, and eyes (jaundice)
- Squinting, eye discharge, and eye pain (if dry eye occurs)
- Secondary kidney failure (rare)
Larger doses can cause symptoms within hours, including:
- Weakness
- Pale or discolored (bluish) gums
- Breathing issues
- Excessive panting
- Death
What is the treatment for a dog experiencing acetaminophen poisoning?
As with all poisoning cases, early intervention is key to successful treatment. Contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 pet poison center for animals, at 800-213-6680, as soon as you realize your pet ingested acetaminophen.
Your veterinarian may give your dog medical-grade activated charcoal to minimize absorption of acetaminophen from the gastrointestinal tract. Supportive therapy will be offered, including fluid support and appropriate medications to treat your dog’s clinical signs and to support organ function. Hospitalization may be needed.
Is any follow-up necessary after treatment?
The prognosis for dogs is excellent if exposure is treated early. Medication and monitoring may be needed for several days to weeks, depending on the dog’s symptoms. High doses of acetaminophen, delays in treatment, or lack of treatment can cause liver damage and affect long-term liver function in dogs who have recovered from acetaminophen poisoning.
Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides 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 per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations 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 atwww.petpoisonhelpline.com.
Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center based out of Minneapolis, MN, is available 24/7 for pet owners and veterinary professionals that require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet. The staff provides 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 per-incident fee includes follow-up consultations 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.
