Vetoryl for Dogs

Vetoryl for dogs is a medication used for the condition known as Cushing's syndrome. Cushing's syndrome is a condition that occurs when the adrenal glands produce too many corticosteroids, causing abdominal enlargement, increased appetite and thirst, thin skin and loss of hair, and excessive urination. Vetoryl can be used for both adrenal-dependent and pituitary-dependent Cushing's syndrome in canines. Vetoryl will need to be used for the rest of your pet's life in order to manage the cortisol levels in his body. 

Overview of Cushing's Syndrome in Canines

Cushing's syndrome is a potentially serious condition in dogs. The disease usually affects older dogs, and occurs when the pituitary gland does not communicate with the hypothalamus as it should. When stress occurs, this causes the dog's cortisol level to increase. An extreme increase in cortisol is a serious condition and can cause an array of problems. Common symptoms of Cushing's syndrome in dogs are as follows:

  • Hair loss
  • Weight gain
  • Excessive thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Loss of bladder control
  • Increased appetite
  • Lethargy
  • Depression
  • Thin skin
  • Brittle hair
  • Bloated abdomen
  • Slow to heal
  • Increased susceptibility to infections

Cushing's syndrome does not have a cure, but the use of the medication known as Vetoryl can help manage the symptoms and control the cortisol levels in your pet's body. It is important to treat Cushing's syndrome properly because it can cause more problems if left untreated. 

How Vetoryl Works

Vetoryl contains the ingredient known as trilostane. Trilostane works by blocking the enzyme in your pet's body that causes the increase in cortisol. This results in a decreased level of cortisol in the canines's body. When your pet finally has the amount of cortisol that is considered healthy and his condition begins to stabilize, he will slowly begin to heal. Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome should disappear relatively soon after the cortisol levels decrease. 

Because there is no cure for Cushing's syndrome, your pet will need to continue taking Vetoryl for the rest of his life to prevent symptoms from reoccurring. Vetoryl will continue to manage your pet's cortisol levels if treatment is maintained properly. 

Vetoryl Dosage Information for Dogs

A veterinarian will provide the proper dosage instructions to follow for your dog. The average dose is around 6 mg a day, but it will vary depending on your dog's specific needs. Vetoryl will need to be given once a day orally, with food. While it is not mandatory, giving the medication in the morning is recommended because it will ensure that any tests given to monitor the medication will be given at least 4 hours after the dosage. Vetoryl is provided in capsule form. 

Common Side Effects of Vetoryl for Dogs

Like most medications, there are some possible side effects associated with the use of Vetoryl. Common side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, reduced appetite, dullness, weakness and lack of energy. In very rare occasions, more serious side effects may occur after using Vetoryl. These may include depression, bloody diarrhea, collapse, adrenal necrosis, adrenal rupture or hypoadrenocortical crisis. Using Vetoryl can result in death in rare cases.

 

Comments