What Is Veterinary Compounding?

The Role of Tramadol in Veterinary Medicine

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What Is Veterinary Compounding?

Saturday, September 12th, 2009

Veterinary compounding refers to the modification of a drug in order to address the unique needs of a patient. For example, a pet pharmacist or veterinarian may take steps to improve the flavor of a medication, combine medications to achieve the best possible dosage or alter the form of a drug to be more easily administered.

Benefits of Veterinary Compounding

Drug compounding is especially useful in veterinary medicine, as numerous medications are no longer offered directly through the manufacturer or are otherwise unavailable in the required drug mixture or dosage. With veterinary compounding, the specific medication requirements of each patient can be met accurately and successfully.

Formulating the proper strength or combination of a drug is only half of the battle. In veterinary medicine, patients often balk at distasteful medications, proving wholly uncooperative when the time comes to administer treatment. Veterinary compounding eases the treatment process by modifying the pharmaceutical potency or combination and improving the palatability of the medication in question.

Regulations for Veterinary Compounding

Drug compounding is an integral part of veterinary medicine and must comply with federal and state regulations. Among other mandates, veterinary compounding must be carried out by a certified veterinarian or licensed pet pharmacist under the order of a qualified practitioner of veterinary medicine. Additionally, the compounded medication must be a safe and appropriate course of treatment. The dosage must also correspond with the specific needs of the patient.

Diamondback Drugs offers a variety of treatment solutions and carries a widespread selection of medications, along with a comprehensive range of bases and flavors. Our expert staff of pharmacists and technicians has successfully completed extensive training in veterinary compounding and are fully equipped to fulfill the varying needs of prescribers and patients.

The Role of Tramadol in Veterinary Medicine

Saturday, September 12th, 2009

Under the brand name Ultram, Tramadol is an analgesic that can help control moderate to severe pain. While Tramadol binds to opiod receptors, it is not considered an opiate. As a result, Tramadol does not produce the sedative or addictive properties frequently associated with opiates.

Tramadol may be administered in veterinary medicine to provide pain relief for animals suffering from chronic conditions such as cancer or arthritis. It can also be used for pain management following injury or surgery.

Veterinary Medicine — Tramadol and Canine Arthritis

In veterinary medicine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often used for pain management associated with canine arthritis. NSAIDs inhibit the production of the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase, which in turn reduces pain and inflammation. However, as cyclo-oxygenase also helps produce essential biochemicals, suppression of this enzyme can prove problematic in some patients.

Tramadol can provide the requisite pain relief for dogs suffering from chronic arthritis without the risk of developing kidney or liver problems associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. In veterinary medicine, Tramadol may be used exclusively or in tandem with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Veterinary Medicine — Tramadol and Felines

Since non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are dangerous for the feline species, Tramadol may provide a safer alternative and can be administered to cats in the treatment of pain.

Tramadol — Side Effects and Drug Interactions

In veterinary medicine, Tramadol is compatible with all cyclo-oxygenase interfering NSAIDs, as well as MSM, glucosamine and some other joint pain nutriceuticals. However, Tramadol should not be administered to animals taking L-Deprenyl, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants and serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

Common side effects of Tramadol may include upset stomach, constipation, pupil constriction, decreased heart rate and coughing. Seizures, notable mental changes and pinpoint pupils may indicate overdose. In addition, since Tramadol is processed through the liver and kidneys, an adjustment of the dosage may be necessary for patients with associated problems.