Cisapride Treatment for Delayed Gastric Emptying

Fluconazole for Veterinary Use

Ciprofloxacin in Veterinary Medicine

Benefits and Uses of Cyclosporine

Metronidazole: Numerous Uses in Veterinary Medicine

Methimazole for Feline Hyperthyroidism

Benefits and Uses of Diazepam

Potassium Bromide for Veterinary Use

Trilostane

What Is Veterinary Compounding?

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Posts Tagged ‘veterinary medicine’

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Cisapride Treatment for Delayed Gastric Emptying

Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009

Cisapride is a gastrointestinal prokinetic that is commonly used for the treatment of conditions that compromise stomach motility, prevent the movement of food and create delayed gastric emptying. A motility agent for the stomach, Cisapride normalizes stomach contractions and increases the movement of the gastrointestinal tract.

Cisapride for Veterinary Medicine — Uses in Cats and Dogs

Cisapride is often used to treat cats and dogs for a variety of motility disorders that lead to delayed gastric emptying. Cisapride is commonly prescribed in veterinary medicine for the treatment and management of Megacolon and chronic constipation in cats, as well as Megaesophagus in dogs.

Veterinary Medicine — Cisapride and Horses

Post-operative ileus (POI), a complication that leads to intestinal obstruction and bowel blockage, can occur in horses following abdominal surgery. However, some horses do not respond well to Cisapride treatment for POI, whether due to species differences or other factors. In addition, there are several causes for POI, such as inflammation and distension, which may influence the response of the patient to Cisapride treatment.

Cisapride — Complications and Precautions in Veterinary Medicine

The most common side effects of Cisapride treatment are related to the digestive tract. When the motility effects are too great, patients can experience diarrhea, abdominal pain and cramping.

Speak to your veterinarian about other possible side effects and precautions before administering Cisapride. In veterinary medicine, some conditions do not respond well to prokinetic drug therapy. Animals with compromised liver function will likely require a lower dose to prevent complications and pregnant or lactating animals are typically not given Cisapride. Animals with cardiac irregularities may also require periodic monitoring from a specialist in veterinary medicine.

Cisapride is not typically administered with a number of other drug treatments, including IV miconazole, clarithromycin. fluconazole, ketoconazole, troleandomycin, itraconazole and erythromycin. Cisapride may also increase the effect of anticoagulants and impinge on the absorption of other medications.

Cisapride Indications for Veterinary Use

In veterinary medicine, drug administration is typically recommended 15 minutes before eating. Cisapride is usually taken orally, but is also available as a transdermal gel and liquid solution or suspension.

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Fluconazole for Veterinary Use

Tuesday, November 24th, 2009

Fluconazole is an antifungal antibiotic that veterinarians use to treat several species of animals that might develop ringworm, central nervous system infections and some yeast infections of the skin. Veterinarians often use Fluconazole to treat dogs with Valley Fever, which can cause rashes and flu-like symptoms. It is also sold under the trademarked names Diflucan and Trican.

Fluconazole in Veterinary Medicine

Although Fluconazole is also used to treat humans, it is a popular veterinary drug. Your veterinarian will decide which dosage will help your pet most. Taking large dosages of veterinary drugs can cause problems in animals just as in humans, so be sure to follow your vet’s directions carefully.

Methods of Ingesting Fluconazole

Fluconazole prescribed to animals is most commonly distributed in pill form, which can be obtained through a veterinary pharmacy. A powder version of the drug is also available but is not as commonly sold for veterinary uses. Pet owners who have difficulty getting their dogs, cats or other animals to take the pill form of Fluconazole should contact their veterinarian or veterinary pharmacy for more information.

Possible Side Effects of Fluconazole

As with all medications, animals being treated with Fluconazole can develop side effects of various severities. Pet owners giving their animals Fluconazole or any other veterinary drugs should pay close attention to signs of worsening skin rashes; anemia, which is evidenced by pale mucus membranes and gums; digestive problems such as vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite; jaundice, which is evidenced by yellow skin, gums or whites of the eyes; lethargy and depression.

Some animals are more susceptible to these side effects than others. Some might also experience allergic reactions to this and similar veterinary drugs. Owners should therefore keep a close eye on their pets and contact their veterinarians immediately if their animals display any of these symptoms.

Obtaining Fluconazole for Your Pets

Pet owners can easily purchase Fluconazole by prescription from any veterinary pharmacy that carries a wide range of veterinary drugs.

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Ciprofloxacin in Veterinary Medicine

Monday, November 9th, 2009

Ciprofloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic that prevents infection by killing off a number of susceptible bacteria.

In veterinary medicine, the use of Ciprofloxacin is widespread. The drug can be administered to a variety of animal species and is used to treat a range of infections. Most commonly, Ciprofloxacin is used to treat cats and dogs for lower respiratory tract infections, skin infections and urinary tract infections.

Ciprofloxacin — Precautions and Side Effects in Veterinary Medicine

As with all veterinary drugs, it is extremely important to follow the Ciprofloxacin prescription as indicated by the designated animal care specialist. Stopping treatment early, unless advised by the veterinarian, may result in a recurrence or worsening of the infection.

Generally, it is not advisable to administer Ciprofloxacin to patients with hypersensitivity. Some medications may interact with Ciprofloxacin, such as antacids, cyclosporine, theophylline and a number of antibiotics. Be sure to inform your animal care specialist of any veterinary drugs or supplements your pet is taking before giving Ciprofloxacin.

In veterinary medicine, Ciprofloxacin may interfere with the bone and cartilage development of some young animals, especially puppies under 28 weeks old. In cases of young and developing patients, regular veterinary supervision may be required during treatment.

Ciprofloxacin — Potential Side Effects

The most common reactions to Ciprofloxacin are diarrhea and loose stool. Potentially serious side effects may include seizures, nausea, appetite loss, yellowing of the eyes or skin and fever, among other reactions. Be sure to ask your veterinarian for more information about potential side effects before beginning treatment.

Ciprofloxacin — Compounding Pharmacy Formulations

A qualified compounding pharmacy can develop different Ciprofloxacin formulations to satisfy the dosage needs of each patient. Common Ciprofloxacin formulations include capsules and ointments. Ophthalmic solutions may be available for the treatment of ocular infections, as well as formulations for ear infections.

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Benefits and Uses of Cyclosporine

Thursday, October 15th, 2009

Cyclosporine is a unique immunosuppressive drug that interferes with T helper cell activity. The initial use was for preventing organ rejection in transplant patients.

Cyclosporine and Veterinary Medicine

Cyclosporine has a number of uses in veterinary medicine. The drug is commonly prescribed for dogs as an effective therapy for dry eye, or KCS (Keratoconjunctivitis sicca), which can lead to blindness if left untreated. Additionally, Cyclosporine treats Atopic Dermatitis in dogs, an allergy condition in which the trigger is unknown.

Other conditions in which Cyclosporine is prescribed for use in veterinary medicine include feline asthma, colitis, perineal fistulas, hemolytic anemia and Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA), a disease in which the red blood cells are under attack in the immune system. In some cases, cats

Cyclosporine and Veterinary Compounding

Due to its widespread use in animal health care, Cyclosporine is often altered through veterinary compounding to satisfy the treatment recommendations of the condition and the individual needs of each patient. For example, in the treatment of KCS, veterinary compounding pharmacies usually develop eye-drops to stop the breakdown of tear gland tissue. Cyclosporine can also be compounded orally to treat conditions such as hemolytic anemia and feline asthma.

Cyclosporine — Potential Side Effects in Veterinary Medicine

As with all medications, Cyclosporine may cause side effects for some patients of veterinary medicine. Common side effects usually subside after one week of treatment and include digestive issues, such as diarrhea, upset stomach and vomiting. A number of patients may experience a loss of appetite.

Cyclosporine Precautions and Indications

Patients with compromised kidney function, liver disease, blood conditions and gastrointestinal ulcers should not be given Cyclosporine. The drug should also not be administered to pregnant or lactating patients.

In general, the designated veterinary medicine professional will recommend that Cyclosporine be administered to patients on an empty stomach. Treatment should be completed as directed by the animal health care specialist in order to successfully treat the condition at hand.

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Metronidazole: Numerous Uses in Veterinary Medicine

Wednesday, October 14th, 2009

Metronidazole is an antibiotic, chiefly used to treat a number of bacterial and parasitic infections. As a highly versatile drug in veterinary medicine, Metronidazole treats all kinds of animal species, including dogs, cats and horses. The medication is known for rapid absorption and compatibility with many other antibiotics.

Veterinary Compounding for Metronidazole

Metronidazole has an extremely unpleasant taste, which can prove difficult when the time comes to administer medication. As a result, qualified veterinary compounding pharmacies are pivotal in the development of several different forms, strengths and flavors of the drug, thus easing the process of administering treatment.

Metronidazole for the Feline and Canine Species

Metronidazole is used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of anaerobic bacterial infections and parasitic diseases in dogs and cats, such as Trichomonas, Giardia, Balatidium. It can also be prescribed for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, gum disease, diarrhea, tetanus and symptoms associated with liver disease, among many other conditions.

Horses and Veterinary Medicine

Many professionals in veterinary medicine treat horses with Metronidazole in correlation with other antibiotics. In such cases, Metronidazole attacks the anaerobic bacteria. Examples of such illnesses include Peritonitis and Pleuropneumonia.

Horses most commonly receive oral administration of Metronidazole. However, the drug may be administered rectally for cases concerning weight loss or anorexia.

Metronidazole — Potential Side Effects in Veterinary Medicine

Stomach upset and other gastrointestinal disturbances are a common side effect of Metronidazole therapy. Cats and dogs may also experience vomiting, nausea, salivating and a decrease in appetite, among other reactions. Infrequent reactions may include dark colored urine, liver problems, fatigue and a decrease in white blood cells.

Given the versatility of Metronidazole, the designated animal health care provider will need to customize the form, dosage and frequency of treatment for the individual needs of each patient. Metronidazole is not typically prescribed for kittens and puppies, as well as for animals in early pregnancy and those with compromised liver or kidney function.

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Methimazole for Feline Hyperthyroidism

Wednesday, October 14th, 2009

Methimazole is used for the treatment of hyperthyroidism, which occurs as a result of an over active thyroid gland. Common symptoms of the condition include weakness, difficulty breathing, weight loss and vomiting. Many patients also experience an increase in appetite, heart rate and urination.

Methimazole and Veterinary Medicine

In veterinary medicine, Methimazole is commonly used to treat cats. Due to its comparatively low occurrence of unpleasant side effects, Methimazole has become the preferred form of treatment for feline hyperthyroidism.

Since there is no known cure for hyperthyroidism, Methimazole can be used for lifelong management to reduce elevated thyroid levels or as a pre-operative measure for decreasing blood thyroid levels below normal in the removal of one of the thyroid glands.

Veterinary Compounding — Methimazole and Dosage Forms

Due to the challenges associated with drug administration in the feline species, the form of Methimazole can be altered through veterinary compounding to ease the process of dispensation. In veterinary compounding, the typical dosage form for cats is a transthermal gel, which simplifies administration and increases the effectiveness of the drug.

Veterinary Medicine — Methimazole and Early Stages of Treatment

Patients should be closely evaluated for the first few months of Methimazole therapy. During the three-month introductory period, specialists in veterinary medicine may wish to schedule frequent check-ups with the patient in order to monitor liver function, test for ANA and check T4 levels. Following introductory treatment, subsequent T4 level testing may be necessary every few months.

Methimazole and Potential Side Effects

Patients may experience the following side effects, which are usually detected within the three-month trial period: depression, appetite loss, leucopenia, vomiting, anorexia and lymphocytosis. Felines who develop a positive ANA will likely need to have the dosage adjusted.

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Benefits and Uses of Diazepam

Saturday, September 12th, 2009

A benzodiazepine tranquilizer, diazepam is used in veterinary medicine to sedate, reduce anxiety, promote behavioral changes or induce muscle relaxation. Diazepam is also an anticonvulsant and can be administered to some species to stimulate appetite.

Diazepam and Veterinary Compounding

In veterinary medicine, diazepam is commonly prescribed for dogs, cats, reptiles, sheep, cattle, horses, goats and swine. Depending on the needs of the individual patient, veterinary compounding can alter the form of the drug for oral, intravenous, rectal or intramuscular administration.

Veterinary Medicine — Diazepam Uses for Dogs and Cats

Diazepam is commonly administered as a sedative, muscle relaxant, anticonvulsant or anti-anxiety medication for dogs and cats. It may be given alone or combined in veterinary compounding in order to pointedly address individual dosage needs.

Diazepam is also used in the treatment of behavioral problems, such as aggression, excessive grooming, territorial spraying and terror caused by loud noises. When treating dogs for aggression, it is possible that diazepam can produce a reverse outcome, causing amplification rather than suppression of aggressive behaviors.

As an anticonvulsant, diazepam may be used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of seizures, whether due to toxic shock or status epilepticus. However, since dogs develop a tolerance rather quickly, diazepam is not typically selected for the continued management of seizures.

Veterinary Medicine — Diazepam and Horses

While not an analgesic, diazepam is commonly administered to sedate horses prior to surgical procedures. In adult horses, diazepam is often paired with another medication in to produce the necessary level of sedation.

Diazepam can also be administered to horses as an anticonvulsant, whether alone or as part of an amalgamation of other medications. It can also assist with breeding behaviors, particularly for withdrawn stallions.

Diazepam and Potential Side Effects

Common side effects may include impaired coordination and lethargy. Aggression, excitement or marked behavioral changes are unusual side effects. In addition, while a rarity, hepatic toxicity has also been reported in some cats.

Be sure to thoroughly discuss drug interactions and additional precautions with a specialist in veterinary medicine before using diazepam for treatment.

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Potassium Bromide for Veterinary Use

Saturday, September 12th, 2009

Potassium bromide is a water-soluble ionic salt compound. Potassium bromide, or KBr, is usually produced via a reaction of a bromide of iron with potassium carbonate. The brand name for KBr is Dibro-Be mono.

In 1857, Sir Charles Locock discovered the anticonvulsant and sedative traits of potassium bromide and began treating his patients. From that point, potassium bromide became a choice treatment for humans with epileptic seizures and nervous disorders until the 1912 discovery of Phenobarbital.

The introduction of Phenobarbital considerably decreased the popularity of potassium bromide in treating humans with epileptic seizures. As a result, potassium bromide is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Potassium Bromide and Veterinary Medicine

Potassium bromide is often prescribed in veterinary medicine for the effective treatment of epileptic seizures in dogs. Depending on the needs of the individual patient, potassium bromide may be the sole form of treatment or used in correlation with Phenobarbital.

Potassium bromide therapy is a rarity among the feline species, as treatment may substantially increase the risk of lung inflammation. Alternative therapies are often explored for cats, such as Diazepam or Phenobarbital, before introducing potassium bromide.

In veterinary medicine, potassium bromide typically comes in a liquid of capsule form. Since it can take three to four months to reach a steady bromide blood level, patients often receive a high dosage at the onset of treatment.

Veterinary Medicine — Potassium Bromide and Potential Side Effects

Many experts in veterinary medicine consider potassium bromide to be equally, if not more effective than Phenobarbital in treating dogs for seizures. However, as with virtually all medications, the possibility of side effects does exist.

Among other potential side effects, patients taking potassium bromide may experience appetite loss, nausea, frequent urination, thirst and drowsiness, especially when treatment is initiated with a high dosage. Coughing is another possible side effect. In such cases, potassium bromide treatment may be halted.

Potassium bromide should be administered with food. Be sure to consult with a licensed specialist in veterinary medicine to arrive at the best possible treatment.

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Trilostane

Saturday, September 12th, 2009

Trilostane is an enzyme inhibiting medication. Its principal use is in the treatment of canine Cushing’s disease. In some cases, trilostane may also be an appropriate treatment for horses, cats and other conditions.

Veterinary Medicine — Dogs and Cushing’s Disease

Cushing’s disease is most common in smaller dogs. Signs of Cushing’s syndrome may include increased appetite, thirst and urination, hair loss, bald patches and an enlarged abdomen. Without treatment, dogs can develop weak and calcified skin patches, hepatopathy and frail abdominal muscles.

Canine Cushing’s disease is caused by excess secretion of the adrenocorticotropic hormone, which elevates cortisol levels. Most dogs that develop Cushing’s disease have pituitary dependant hyperadrenocorticism (PDH). Those who do not have Cushing’s because of PDH have an adrenocortical tumor, which may be benign or malignant. Whether the result of an adrenal or pituitary tumor, Cushing’s disease interferes with biological mechanisms that normally function to regulate cortisol blood levels.

As of 2008, Trilostane is an FDA approved treatment for dogs with Cushing’s disease. Administering Trilostane can inhibit with the production of cortisol in the adrenal glands, adjusting the adreno-cortico hormone levels and preventing disease symptoms.

Trilostane can be administered in once-daily doses, or in smaller, more frequent doses to reduce the occurrence of side effects. It may take approximately four weeks for the drug to take effect and to notice a reduction of symptoms.

Trilostane — Other Uses in Veterinary Medicine

In addition to treatment for pituitary dependant hyperadrenocorticism, adrenocortical tumors and Cushing’s disease, Trilostane may be used to treat dogs with Alopecia X. Advancements in veterinary medicine have also led to substantial groundwork in the use of trilostane for treating horses with Cushing’s.

Additionally, while PDH in felines is rare, trilostane may be a chosen form of therapy. However, trilostane has revealed to be a less successful form of treatment for cats.

Trilostane — Drug Interactions and Potential Side Effects

Potential side effects include vomiting, reduced appetite, weight loss, diarrhea and tiredness. Rare instances of death have been reported. As each patient reacts differently to trilostane, arriving at the appropriate dosage is crucial in preventing instances of overdose and achieving the best possible outcome.

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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.

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