Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Dog in coma and apnea after hydroxyzine overdose
By Tegzes, John H et al.·Published in Veterinary and human toxicology·2002·University of California, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Coma and apnea in a dog with hydroxyzine toxicosis.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A large dog was brought in after accidentally ingesting a high dose of hydroxyzine, a medication often used for allergies. The dog was in a coma and had trouble breathing, which required intensive care for 11 days to help remove the drug from its system and support its breathing. Thankfully, after extensive treatment, the dog recovered and was able to go home. This case highlights the serious risks of hydroxyzine overdose in pets and the importance of immediate veterinary care.
People also search for: dog coma after medication · hydroxyzine overdose in dogs · dog breathing problems treatment
Abstract
Hydroxyzine is a commonly prescribed H1-receptor antagonist in small animal practice. The most common adverse effect reported after therapeutic dosing is mild sedation; severe reactions resulting in coma have occasionally been reported in children. We present a case of large po hydroxyzine exposure causing in coma and apnea in a dog. Exposure was confirmed with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis of urine. Extensive therapeutic measures to enhance drug elimination and assist ventilation were required for 11 d. The positive outcome justifies critical care of similarly exposed animals. Veterinarians should be aware of the potential for coma and apnea secondary to hydroxyzine exposure.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11824769/