Dog thyroid problems may be caused by an abnormal production of thyroid hormones. The level of hormones may be too high (the dog has hyperthyroidism) or too low (the dog is diagnosed with hypothyroidism). Throzine is a drug that may be administered to a dog that has a thyroid disorder and a high level of thyroid hormones.
Throzine for Dogs
Throzine is a drug that is rarely prescribed in dogs that have an excess production of T3 and T4, which are the thyroid hormones. Tyrosine, is an amino acid that is found among the components of the throzine medication.
The throzine drugs should regulate the production of thyroid hormones, by affecting the thyroid glands. The dose of the drug will be prescribed according to the condition of the dog, his age and the dog breed. The dosage may have to be adjusted, as the treatment progresses, according to the results of the tests that need to be performed on a regular basis.
The drug hasn’t been sufficiently tested in dogs and most vets will prefer to prescribe alternative medication or a different type of treatment to reduce the production of thyroid hormones.
Throzine Side Effects
The use of throzine in canines is limited and there is no precise info on the side effects this medication can cause.
However, some dog owners have reported seizures after a longer administration of the drug. It hasn’t been established whether the drug causes this side effect.
Other possible side effects of throzine may include:
- Fatigue
- Behavioral changes
- Irritability
- Panting and breathing problems
- Increased thirst
If the side effects are severe or if the dog develops seizures, the medication should be discontinued immediately and a vet should be consulted for a different course of treatment.
While under treatment with throzine, the dog will have to be supervised and bi-monthly tests will have to be performed. The tests will indicate if the levels of the thyroid hormones are closer to normal and whether the treatment is effective.
The administration of throzine may have another side effect; it may reduce the production of thyroid hormones, which can decrease dramatically, leading to hypothyroidism. The condition can be typically treated, but you need to supervise your pet for any symptoms indicating a low level of thyroid hormones (i.e. dry skin, weight gain and lethargy).
Throzine Contraindications
Given the fact that throzine may cause seizures, it is recommended to avoid administering this drug to dogs that have been diagnosed with epilepsy or have seizures due to unknown causes. The drug may trigger seizures in dogs that are already developing seizures on a regular basis.
The drug shouldn’t be administered to puppies, pregnant and lactating dogs.
There are several drugs that may interfere with the use of throzine, so it is recommended to let the vet know if your pet is under any type of medication.