Proin for dogs is a drug that is prescribed for urinary incontinence. This drug helps to tighten muscles in the bladder, therefore leading to reduced leakage of urine. There are several important points that you should be aware of before you choose to use this particular drug for treating a dog with urinary incontinence.
History of Proin for Dogs
Proin for dogs is a drug that was once called Dexatrim. This was a diet drug that was removed from the market due to the danger of side effects. The most prevalent side effect was that of CVA (cerebrovascular accident), better known as a stroke. Studies have reported that this side effect does not occur in dogs, therefore the drug has now been approved for use by the veterinary community.
Urinary Incontinence
Proin for dogs is used for treating urinary incontinence. This condition occurs in both male and female dogs and results in sporadic or frequent leakage of urine from the bladder. Urinary incontinence is reportedly more frequent in female dogs that were spayed at a very young age and in dogs that are aging or obese.
This condition can cause secondary skin infections, urine scalding and inflammation due to constant irritation. Additionally, the unpleasant odor produced by urine leakage is generally difficult to get rid of, whether on the dog or when furniture, carpets and bedding are affected.
Choosing Proin for Dogs
Before choosing Proin for dogs as the treatment of choice for urinary incontinence, other conditions must first be ruled out. If a kidney or bladder infection is present, alternative methods of treatment may be more beneficial. Though urinary incontinence may be controlled using Proin, it is not often cured. It's likely your dog will need to continue taking Proin for life, though a decrease in dosage may be warranted in some cases that reflect successful results.
Side Effects of Proin for Dogs
As with any medication, Proin for dogs has a potential to produce side effects. Some dogs can remain on this medication for long periods of time while experiencing very few mild side effects, or none at all. Other dogs are subject to any number of side effects, ranging from moderate to severe. It's important to be aware of the possibility of the following side effects when using this drug:
- Allergic reaction, including swelling of the lips, tongue and face, hives, fever and abnormal behavior
- Seizure
- Restlessness
- Hyperactivity
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Irritability or aggressive behavior
- Loss of appetite, lethargy
Other Considerations
Proin for dogs should always be used according to recommended dosage to avoid seizures, coma or other potentially fatal effects. Do not use this drug in conjunction with ephedrine, epinephrine or MAOis, such as selegilene or Preventic Collar. NSAIDs, digoxin, Rimadyl, aspirin and antidepressant drugs may cause a reaction or reduce the effectiveness of Proin. If your dog is already experiencing problems with high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma or thyroid, alternative methods of treatment should be discussed.