Educational Articles
-
Propranolol (brand names Inderal®, Detensol®, Hemangeol®, Innopran®) is a beta-blocker used off label (extra label) to treat abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) in cats, dogs, ferrets, and horses. It has also been used short-term to treat hypertension caused by thyrotoxicosis or pheochromocytoma. It is given by mouth or injection.
-
Pyrantel pamoate is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat intestinal parasites in many species. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.
-
Pyridostigmine bromide is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat symptoms related to myasthenia gravis. Give as directed. Dose-related side effects include drooling, diarrhea, increased urination, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, and increased tear production. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other bromides, or in pets that have urinary or gastrointestinal tract obstructions or blockages. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
-
Pyrimethamine is an antiprotozoal tablet given by mouth and used off-label to treat certain parasitic infections. Common side effects include vomiting, low appetite, tiredness, and low blood cell counts. Cats are more likely to have more severe side effects. Pregnant women should handle this medication carefully.
-
Ranitidine is given by mouth or injection and is used off-label to treat ulcers and erosions in the stomach and upper small intestine, reflux, or gastrointestinal motility issues. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset. Do not use in pets with a history of allergies to this class of drugs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.
-
Rifampin is commonly used off label to treat infections in horses, and occasionally in dogs and cats. It is usually given by mouth in the form of a capsule or compounded liquid. The most common side effects are vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced appetite. Liver dysfunction is possible. A change in the color of urine, tears, and saliva to a red/orange color is expected but may stain fabrics. Use with caution in pets that have pre-existing liver disease, are pregnant, are elderly, or are lactating. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office.
-
Robenacoxib (brand name: Onsior) is given by mouth in the form of a tablet to treat pain and inflammation associated with surgery or other musculoskeletal conditions in dogs and cats. 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.
-
Ronidazole is given by mouth and is used off label to treat Tritrichomonas foetus, trichomonas, and giardia in dogs, cats, and birds. It should not be used in farmed animals. Common side effects include vomiting and decreased appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other nitroimidazoles such as metronidazole. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
-
Ropinirole ophthalmic (Clevor®) is the first FDA-approved drug for inducing vomiting in dogs. Your veterinarian may prescribe this drug off label to use for your dog at home. Ropinirole ophthalmic comes as a single-use dropper for use in the eye.
-
SAMe is given by mouth and is used on label and over the counter to treat liver disease and other conditions. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon but may include mild stomach upset. Antidepressants, dextromethorphan, meperidine, pentazocine, and tramadol should be used with caution when given with SAMe. Inform your veterinarian of all medications, vitamins, and supplements that your pet is taking. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
