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Nizatidine

H2-Receptor Antagonist / Prokinetic
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Competitively blocks histamine H2 receptors on parietal cells, reducing basal and stimulated gastric acid secretion. Unique among H2-blockers: also inhibits acetylcholinesterase, providing prokinetic effects (increases gastric motility).

At a glance

Class
H2-Receptor Antagonist / Prokinetic
Schedule
OTC
Storage
Store at room temperature below 25°C, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Preferred H2-blocker when prokinetic effect is desired (gastroparesis with gastr
Dose
5–10 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
🐈

Cat

Same dual acid-suppression/prokinetic benefit
Dose
2.5–5 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength
Strength

Storage

Store at room temperature below 25°C, protect from moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

GI symptom resolutionRenal function for dose adjustment

Interactions

No documented interactions.

Brands

Other markets

Axid

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Nizatidine?
Nizatidine is a h2-receptor antagonist / prokinetic used in pets. Competitively blocks histamine H2 receptors on parietal cells, reducing basal and stimulated gastric acid secretion. Unique among H2-blockers: also inhibits acetylcholinesterase, providing prokinetic effects (increases gastric motility).
What is Nizatidine used for in pets?
Nizatidine is used in veterinary medicine for: Preferred H2-blocker when prokinetic effect is desired (gastroparesis with gastr; Same dual acid-suppression/prokinetic benefit.
What is the Nizatidine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Nizatidine is typically dosed as follows — Preferred H2-blocker when prokinetic effect is desired (gastroparesis with gastr: 5–10 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What is the Nizatidine dose for cats?
For cats, Nizatidine is typically dosed as follows — Same dual acid-suppression/prokinetic benefit: 2.5–5 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
Does Nizatidine need a prescription?
Nizatidine is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →