Educational Articles
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Praziquantel is given on and off label and by mouth or injection to treat various internal parasites in cats, dogs, small mammals, birds, reptiles, and large animals. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, in puppies less than 3 weeks old, or kittens less than 6 weeks old.
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Praziquantel/pyrantel pamoate (brand name Drontal) is an oral antiparasitic drug used to treat and control hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms in cats and kittens that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 0.9 kg (2 lb), and in dogs and puppies that are at least 12 weeks of age and weigh at least 2.7 kg (6 lb). Praziquantel/pyrantel pamoate comes in tablet form.
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Praziquantel/pyrantel pamoate/febantel (brand name Drontal Plus) is an oral antiparasitic drug used to treat and control hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms in dogs and puppies that are at least 3 weeks of age and weigh at least 0.9 kg (2 lb). Praziquantel/pyrantel pamoate/febantel comes in tablet form. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” in other species (not recommended in cats) for certain conditions.
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Prazosin is given by mouth and is used to reduce urinary sphincter tone to relax the bladder and allow easier urination in dogs and cats. It may also be used as a treatment for congestive heart failure, systemic hypertension, or pulmonary hypertension in dogs. Give as directed. Common side effects include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and constipation. This medication should be used with caution in pets with kidney disease or other conditions that cause low blood pressure, as well as in MDR1-positive dogs. If a negative reaction occurs, contact your veterinarian.
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Prednisolone ophthalmic is a topical steroid medication used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats, dogs, and other animals. Prednisolone ophthalmic is available as a sole agent or in combination with antimicrobials. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat other eye conditions. Prednisolone ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form. Avoid use in animals with viral or fungal infections, corneal ulceration, and birds.
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Prednisone/prednisolone is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label to treat Addison’s disease, inflammatory conditions, neoplasia (cancer), and immune-mediated diseases. Give this medication as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include increased drinking, increased urination, and increased appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, or pets with systemic fungal infections, viral infections, ulcers, tuberculosis, or Cushing’s disease. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Pregabalin (brand name Lyrica®), is an anticonvulsant and neuropathic pain medication. It is used to treat refractory or complex partial seizures and chronic neuropathic pain in small animals. It has been used to treat other types of pain in cats and dogs. It is used "off label" or "extra label" in animals. Pregabalin comes in capsule or liquid suspension form.
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Probiotics are given by mouth and are used over the counter to treat gastrointestinal upset. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are rare but may include gas or mild discomfort. Do not use in pets that are very sick and immunocompromised, or in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Procainamide (brand names Pronestyl®, Biocoryl®, Procan®, Procanbid®) is an antiarrhythmic drug used off label (extra label) in dogs and horses to treat abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular premature complexes, and ventricular tachycardia.
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Propantheline bromide is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat diarrhea, slow heart rate, and incontinence. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include dry mouth, dry eyes, fast heart rate, difficulty urinating, and constipation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or similar drugs, or pets that have certain heart, bladder, or intestinal problems, glaucoma, or myasthenia gravis. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
