Educational Articles
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Fenofibrate is a fibric acid derivative used as an anti-lipemic agent to lower triglycerides (a type of fat or lipid) in dogs. Its use in cats and other animals has not been studied. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Fenofibrate comes in capsule and tablet forms.
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Fentanyl is an opioid medication used off-label to treat pain in cats and dogs. It is often given as an injection in hospital, but patches may be prescribed to deliver fentanyl transdermally (through the skin) for pets at home. This handout describes common side effects, risk factors, and drug interactions. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Ferrous sulfate is given by mouth and is used off label to treat iron-deficiency. Use as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset such as discomfort, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Finasteride is given by mouth and is used off-label to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (enlarged prostate) in intact male dogs, and may also be used for adrenal problems in ferrets. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon. Do not use it in sexually developing animals or in females, including pregnant or nursing females. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinarian.
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Fipronil is used topically to treat flea, tick, and chewing lice infestations. Side effects are uncommon but may include skin irritation at the application site. Do not use this product on pets less than 8 weeks old, geriatric pets, or sick/weak pets.
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Firocoxib is given by mouth in the form of a tablet to treat pain and inflammation in dogs and horses. It may also be used off label to treat a specific type of bladder cancer in dogs. Do not use this medication in pets that are allergic to it or in pets concurrently using corticosteroids or other NSAIDs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
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Fish oil is an over-the-counter supplement, given by mouth, that is commonly used to treat a wide variety of inflammatory conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are not common but may include vomiting, diarrhea, or a fishy odor. Do not use concurrently with anticoagulant medications. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Flaxseed oil is derived from flax plant seeds and contains high levels of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid, and is used to treat certain inflammatory conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects may include diarrhea, vomiting, delayed wound healing, or an oily coat and skin flakes. Serious side effects include persistent stomach upset, or pancreatitis. Flaxseed oil should not be used in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Florfenicol/terbinafine/betamethasone otic (brand name Osurnia®) is a long-acting, topical ear medication used to treat the itching and inflammation associated with certain bacterial ear infections in dogs. It is labeled for use in dogs and not intended for use in cats. Florfenicol/terbinafine/betamethasone otic should only be administered by a veterinary professional.
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Florfenicol/ terbinafine/mometasone otic (brand names: Claro®, Simplera®) is a long-acting, topical ear medication used to treat the itching and inflammation associated with certain bacterial and/or ear infections in dogs. It is not intended for use in cats. This medication is usually given by veterinary personnel as a single dose.
