Reading Medication Labels

Small Animal Management 130.4(c)2D

Identify the species

• Most medications have a limited range on the species they treat.– Human medication should only be given to

animals under the direction of a veterinarian• Animals physiological stages should be

considered as well– Many medications are not appropriate for puppies

or pregnant females

Identify Purpose of the Medication

• Before giving your animal a medication you must identify the need for the pet and correspond that with the appropriate medication– Selamectin is a heartworm preventive and used to

prevent and control of flea infestations. It is used for the treatment and control of roundworms, hookworms, and ear mite infestations. • This medicine would not be appropriate for treatment of

already existing heartworm

Follow Handling Protocols

• Medications, especially vaccines may be weakened or rendered ineffective with improper handling – Refer to package inserts for guidelines• I.e. proper temperature, avoidance of sunlight,

expiration dates

Determine Route of Administration

• Identify the method which the medication should be administered– Ex:

• Orally- by mouth• Topically- on skin• Subcutaneously- injected under the skin

• Look for additional guidelines for administration– Ex:

• Give with food• Do not allow animal to lick application site• Do not give directly in mouth

Calculate Dosage

• Medications prescribed by vet will have the recommended dosage given

• Over the counter medications may require dosage to be calculated based on factors such as weight or age

Calculate Dosage

• Do the math!• The recommended initial dose of Albon Oral

Suspension 5% is 1 tsp per 10 lb of body weight (25 mg/lb) for dogs or cats, followed by 1/2 teaspoonful per 10 lb of body weight (12.5 mg/lb) every 24 hours thereafter. – How much will I give a 35 lb. dog for the first dose? – How much will I give the dog the next day?

3.5 tsp/ 875 mg

1.75 tsp / 437.5 mg

Observe for Adverse Reactions

• The medication packaging will indicate possible side effects and reactions– Identify these symptoms before administering

medication– Some side effects are expected with certain drugs– The label will indicate abnormal or severe

reactions that would require veterinary attention