Top 5 Most Dangerous Veterinary Drugs for Your Pets

Five of the Deadliest Drugs for Dogs and Cats in Veterinary Medicine

You may be surprised, but there are many drugs used in veterinary medicine that, unfortunately, have side effects—some more than others. Here are five commonly used drugs that can have serious side effects you might not be aware of:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Drugs like Rimadyl and Metacam are frequently prescribed to our pets for inflammation, but they carry common side effects that the FDA has detailed on its own page. These include vomiting, diarrhea, ulcers, liver disease, kidney disease, seizures, and even death. These drugs are metabolized by the liver and excreted via the kidneys, putting animals with organ dysfunction at a higher risk. If you notice your pet exhibiting symptoms like increased lethargy, excessive drinking, or frequent urination, consult your veterinarian immediately and consider safer alternatives like CBD.

2. Flea and Tick Medications: Drugs like Trifexis and Bravecto are effective against fleas and heartworms but can also harm your pet’s nervous system. Reported side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, lethargy, depression, ataxia, trembling, and seizures. Some pet owners have reported severe outcomes, including death. Given these risks, I personally would be very cautious about using these products.

3. Allergy Medications: New drugs such as Apoquel and Cytopoint are designed to block the inflammatory cascade. Apoquel inhibits cytokines that mediate inflammation, while Cytopoint, an antibody, binds to interleukin-3, which is crucial for immune response. While effective in reducing symptoms like itching and scratching, these drugs can also suppress the immune system, increasing the risk of infections and certain cancers. Consider starting with a proper food trial and adding supplements like bioactive quercetin, which can be safer.

4. Steroids: Prednisone and other steroids are commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat allergies and autoimmune diseases. Despite their prevalence, steroids can cause increased thirst, hunger, urination, behavioral changes, stomach ulcers, and secondary infections. Long-term use can lead to conditions like drug-induced Cushing’s Disease and diabetes. If your pet is experiencing side effects, do not abruptly stop the medication; instead, gradually taper off under veterinary supervision.

5. Antibiotics: While necessary for treating bacterial infections, antibiotics can disrupt the intestinal flora, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and a weakened immune system. Specific antibiotics, like trimethoprim-sulfa, can cause dry eye, liver disease, and serious skin reactions. Fluoroquinolones like Baytril may lead to neurological issues and increased susceptibility to injuries like ACL tears. Metronidazole, commonly prescribed for diarrhea, can also cause neurological problems if dosed improperly. Before resorting to antibiotics, consider whether they are truly necessary, as many conditions might be viral or fungal.

While conventional drugs play a crucial role in veterinary medicine, it’s important to be aware of their side effects and to monitor your pet closely if they are being treated with these medications. Always consider safer alternatives and discuss these options with your veterinarian. For more insights and tips, subscribe to our channel and download a free copy of my book by clicking the link below.