my dog ate a 5mg flexeril

Breiz Heurope

2 min read

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11-03-2025

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My Dog Ate a 5mg Flexeril: What to Do Now

Important Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. If your dog ingested Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine), contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately. This is a serious situation requiring professional veterinary care.

What is Flexeril?

Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is a muscle relaxant prescribed for humans to treat muscle spasms and pain. It's dangerous for dogs because it can cause a variety of toxic effects. Even a small dose like 5mg can be problematic depending on your dog's size and health.

Why is Flexeril Toxic to Dogs?

Flexeril affects the central nervous system in dogs. This can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, including:

• Mild Symptoms: Drowsiness, lethargy, weakness, incoordination (ataxia), mild tremors.
• Moderate Symptoms: Excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, increased heart rate (tachycardia).
• Severe Symptoms: Seizures, difficulty breathing, coma, death.

What to Do if Your Dog Ate Flexeril:

1. Act Quickly: Time is crucial in cases of pet poisoning. Do not wait to see if your dog develops symptoms.

2. Contact Your Veterinarian or Animal Poison Control: Your vet will provide guidance specific to your dog's situation. Contacting an animal poison control center is crucial as they have specialized knowledge and can offer immediate advice. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is a good option; you may need to pay a consultation fee.

3. Gather Information: Before contacting your vet or the poison control center, gather the following information:

• The amount of Flexeril ingested: In this case, 5mg.
• Your dog's weight and breed: This helps determine the toxicity level.
• When the ingestion occurred: The timing is important for treatment decisions.
• Any other medications your dog takes: This helps assess potential interactions.

4. Follow Veterinary Instructions: Your veterinarian will likely ask you to bring your dog in for examination. They may induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal to absorb the medication, or provide supportive care.

5. Monitor Your Dog Closely: Even if your dog seems fine initially, monitor them for any changes in behavior or symptoms. Report any changes to your vet immediately.

Prevention is Key:

Keep all medications, including human prescriptions, out of your dog's reach. Secure them in a locked cabinet or use child-proof containers. Educate family members and guests about the dangers of keeping medications accessible to pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Will my dog be okay after eating 5mg of Flexeril?

A: There's no way to know for certain without veterinary assessment. While 5mg might seem like a small amount, it can still cause problems depending on your dog's size and individual sensitivity. Veterinary intervention is necessary.

Q: My dog ate Flexeril hours ago, and he seems fine. Should I still contact the vet?

A: Yes, absolutely. Symptoms can develop gradually or unexpectedly. Contacting your vet is crucial to ensure your dog receives appropriate care.

Conclusion:

Ingesting even a small amount of Flexeril is a serious concern for dogs. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial for the best possible outcome. Don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center right away. Prevention is the best approach; keep all medications securely stored away from your pets. Remember, seeking professional help quickly is the most important step.