Dexamethasone for dogs

Dexamethasone is a medication used to reduce swelling and inflammation, and to treat allergies and other conditions in dogs. It is highly effective. It can be used for emergency treatment of allergic reactions. It is based on a synthetic hormone, so it is not recommended for use without consulting a veterinarian.

Action

The active ingredient of the medication is a substance called dexamethasone. It is a synthetic hormone, an analogue of a hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. This synthetic hormone has a broad spectrum of action, as it can influence various processes in the body.

The medication has pronounced anti-allergic properties. Its effectiveness stems from the fact that it prevents the body from reacting to the irritant. Furthermore, it suppresses the immune system, even at the cellular level.

The medication also has anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects. When ingested, it blocks the production of substances involved in inflammatory processes and inhibits the synthesis of mast cells, which cause swelling. Furthermore, it influences the formation of connective tissue, increases capillary permeability, and constricts blood vessels.

When dexamethasone is administered by injection, it begins to act within 15-20 minutes, reaching peak blood levels within an hour. The hormonal effect lasts for two days. The drug's components are eliminated from the animal's body through bile and urine.

Price

The price of Dexamethasone depends on its form of release:

• tablets, 10 pcs. – from 35 rubles;
• solution, 1 ampoule 1 ml – from 23 rubles;
• solution, 100 ml – from 900 rubles;
• eye drops, 10 ml – from 85 rubles.

The medication can be purchased not only at veterinary clinics but also at regular pharmacies. You can also order it online for home delivery.

Solution and tablets

Dexamethasone is available in several dosage forms. The injection solution is a clear liquid. It is packaged in rubber-stoppered vials (usually 50 or 100 ml) or in 1 ml glass ampoules. Ampoule packaging is more convenient, as the medication has a shelf life of only 3 weeks after opening. If using the medication on a dog, most of it must be discarded. Larger vials are only recommended for cattle or horses.

The tablets are round with beveled edges. One side has a groove that allows the tablet to be divided into two equal halves. Blisters are used for packaging. Each blister contains 10 tablets. A cardboard box may contain 1 to 10 blisters.

The tablets are available in two strengths: 0.5 and 1 mg of active ingredient. When purchasing, pay attention to this value. Otherwise, you may exceed the recommended dose. In addition to the active ingredient, the tablets also contain:

• talc;
• magnesium stearate;
• cornstarch;
• silicon dioxide;
• povidone;
• other auxiliary components.

Indications for use

The instructions indicate that Dexamethasone is prescribed to dogs in the following cases:

• in case of allergic reactions;
• with Quincke's edema;
• in anaphylactic shock;
• in case of swelling that occurs due to injuries (bruises, dislocations etc.);
• at arthritis and other inflammatory processes of the joints;
• at eczema;
• in autoimmune diseases.

The drug is also sometimes prescribed for diseases of the nervous system, blood, and sepsis. Tablets are typically prescribed for chronic conditions. Dexamethasone injections are given to dogs for allergic reactions, including those with a risk of anaphylactic shock. The drug acts quickly and prevents further development of allergies, effectively relieving symptoms, without the need for additional antihistamines.

How to apply

According to the instructions, Dexamethasone injections for dogs can be administered intramuscularly, subcutaneously, or intravenously. The dosage depends on the animal's weight. The following dosages are commonly used:

• For small dogs – 0.1-0.3 ml;
• for representatives of medium and large breeds – 0.5-1 ml.

The exact dosage should be calculated by a veterinarian. They should consider not only the pet's weight but also the symptoms, progression of the disease, and overall condition. A single injection is usually sufficient. If necessary, the injection can be repeated at the same dose the following day.

When using tablets, the average dosage is 0.1 mg of active ingredient per 1 kg of body weight, but this is usually adjusted by a doctor depending on the pet's condition. The duration of treatment should also be determined by a doctor. When using tablets, the dosage is usually reduced gradually, otherwise adrenal insufficiency may develop.

Please note! Incorrect or prolonged use of this medication can cause serious health problems, so self-medication is strictly prohibited.

Contraindications and restrictions

Dexamethasone should not be used under any circumstances if you are allergic to any of its components. It is also not recommended in the following cases:

• at stomach ulcer or duodenum;
• with hyperadrenocorticalism (increased production of hormones by the adrenal glands);
• in severe liver diseases;
• in case of heart or kidney failure;
• in diabetes mellitus;
• for osteoporosis;
• in case of bone fractures.

Please note! This medication should not be used on pregnant females, especially during the first month and a couple of weeks before giving birth.

The use of Dexamethasone should not be combined with the following medications:

• For treatment of diabetes mellitus;
• other glucocorticosteroids;
• immunostimulants;
• diuretics;
• some types of antibiotics;
• antiallergic agents.

Side effects

When used briefly or for short periods and at the recommended dose, the medication is well tolerated. However, with prolonged treatment or if the dose is exceeded, the following side effects may occur:

• dilation of pupils;
• increased intraocular pressure;
• slow growth of corneal cells, which can cause vision problems.

It's important to remember that this medication is hormonal and affects the endocrine system. Long-term use may cause diabetes. The hormonal medication impairs calcium absorption, so treatment may lead to bone fragility. The medication can also cause internal bleeding and negatively impact liver function. Therefore, it is recommended to use it under the supervision of a physician or in full compliance with their recommendations.

Eye drops

Dexamethasone is available as eye drops for the treatment of eye diseases. The 0.1% clear solution is packaged in polymer bottles with a dropper. Eye drops They help reduce swelling and redness and stop inflammation. According to the instructions, Dexamethasone drops are prescribed for dogs in the following cases:

• for non-purulent blepharitis And conjunctivitis;
• for scleritis;
• at keratitis;
• for uveitis;
• with iridocyclitis.

The medication can also be used for corneal injuries, but only after the wound has healed. Sometimes, the drops are used to prevent swelling and inflammation during surgery.

Please note! It is strictly prohibited to use this hormonal medication if you have eye diseases of fungal, viral, or antibacterial origin, or if you have degenerative changes in the cornea.

The solution should be administered 1 drop 3 times daily. Treatment can last from 1-2 days to 2 weeks, depending on the stage of the disease and symptoms. Any discharge should be removed with a clean, sterile swab before administration.

Owner reviews

Natalia, Yorkshire Terrier breeder:

"One of my female dogs is severely allergic, and the reaction develops so quickly that if treatment isn't provided promptly, the consequences can be dire. The first time she had an attack, the doctor was present. He gave her a Dexamethasone injection. Now, I always have this medication and a syringe in my first aid kit. But it's a hormonal medication, so it's not recommended to overuse it."

Oksana, the pit bull's owner:

"After the fight, we discovered our dog had an eye injury. We immediately went to the clinic. The doctor prescribed Dexamethasone drops. We first rinsed with saline, then applied the drops. By the third day, the dog was feeling better, but we completed the full five-day course. The advantage of the medication is that it can be purchased at any pharmacy."

Veterinarian Reviews

Sergey, a veterinarian with 14 years of experience:

"Dexamethasone is a real first aid for allergic reactions. I believe every pet owner should have a couple of ampoules of this medication. However, it's a hormonal medication and has contraindications, so be sure to consult your doctor."

Evgeniya, a veterinarian with 7 years of experience:

"An inexpensive but effective remedy, although I recommend using it only in extreme cases. The use of hormonal medications cannot be without consequences for animals. I sometimes use it in my practice, especially for allergies, but it is absolutely not recommended for self-medication."

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