Dexamethasone is a type of corticosteroid medication that effectively reduces inflammation in dogs. Although the drug is very beneficial to pets suffering from inflammatory conditions, it should be used with care as it’s known to cause certain side effects. This medication is available in injection and tablet form. Some topical medications also contain dexamethasone.
Apart from reducing inflammation, the medication is also known to treat different conditions.
Conditions Treated with Dexamethasone
Conditions treated include:
- Trauma to the spinal cord
- Allergic reactions to medications
- Thrombocytopenia
- Disorders of the eye
- Skin conditions
- Certain forms of cancer
- Used to decrease swelling
Dexamethasone Tablets for Dogs
Dexamethasone is available as 0.5 mg tablets. These tablets are prescription drugs that have to be administered with caution. Since the drug treats a wide variety of conditions, there are no general dosage instructions listed by the manufacturer. You will have to follow the instructions that are given to you by the vet as each dog responds differently to the medication that’s prescribed.
If Dexamethasone is prescribed as a course for a few days, you should avoid discontinuing the drug, unless otherwise directed by the vet. You shouldn’t suddenly stop administering the drug as this could cause certain complications.
Side Effects of Dexamethasone
Like most other corticosteroid medications, dexamethasone is known to cause certain side effects. Some of the common side effects that develop include increased thirst, loss of appetite, frequent urination, high blood glucose levels and sedation. Your pet may also show signs of muscle wasting and adrenal insufficiency if the medication is administered for a long duration.
Dexamethasone is also known to interact with certain drugs like non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and steroids like prednisone. You should also keep the vet informed about any other medications you’re giving your pet, even if they’re simple herbal remedies. Drugs like carpofen, etodolac and cyclosporine are also known to interact with dexamethasone.
Contraindications You Must Know
If your pet has had an allergic reaction to dexamethasone in the past you must avoid giving this drug to your pet. Dexamethasone may not be ideal for your pet if he’s suffering from a viral or bacterial infection. It should also be administered with caution to pets suffering from liver problems, osteoporosis and epilepsy.
Tips for Pet Owners
If your dog is suffering from any illness that warrants the use of dexamethasone, you must monitor your pet so that his condition doesn’t worsen. Follow up vet checks are essential as the vet may have to alter the dosage as required.
Since corticosteroids give rise to serious side effects, you must look for alternate ways to treat your pet. You could either administer herbal remedies as a long term solution or visit a holistic vet to find out about other treatment options that may suit your dog.