Lacto-Stop for dogs

Lacto-Stop is a medication used in dogs to treat false pregnancy and stop lactation. Developed by the Russian company Api-San, the medication is an analogue of an expensive French drug. GalastopIts main advantage is its more affordable price.

Features and action

Lacto-Stop is a solution for oral administration. The oily liquid is clear but has a characteristic yellowish tint. The solution is dispensed in polymer bottles. A screw-on cap and dropper make administration convenient. It is available in two sizes: 7 and 15 ml. For small and medium-sized dogs, choose the smaller bottle, while larger females should purchase the 15 ml bottle.

The drug contains only two components:

• cabergoline;
• triglycerides.

Cabergoline is the active ingredient that determines the medication's pharmacological properties. 1 ml of solution contains 50 mg of the active ingredient. Triglycerides serve only as ancillary agents.

The medication's action is determined by cabergoline, which has pronounced hypoprolactinemic properties, meaning it reduces prolactin levels in the animal's blood. The substance acts on the pituitary gland and inhibits the production of prolactin, a hormone responsible for milk production, preparing the body for pregnancy and childbirth, and other similar processes. However, it does not affect other endocrine processes.

Lacto-Stop has the following effect on the body of bitches:

• suppresses milk production and stops lactation;
• eliminates signs of false pregnancy;
• normalizes behavior.

Peak cabergoline concentrations occur only after 2 days of administration, but its effects persist for 14 days. It is eliminated from the body in feces and urine.

The drug is classified as a low-hazard substance. It does not have the following effects on the animal's body:

• does not affect embryo development;
• non-addictive;
• does not contribute to the occurrence of birth defects in the fetus.

It is important to carefully read the instructions before using Lacto-Stop for dogs and not exceed the recommended doses.

What is the price

Since the drug is produced domestically, there is no shortage of it in veterinary pharmacies. The medication can also be purchased online. The price of Lacto-Stop for dogs depends on the bottle size:

• 7 ml – 750-850 rub.;
• 15 ml – 1200-1400 rub.

The price shown is an average and may vary up or down in different pharmacies, regions, and online stores.

Indications for use

Lacto-Stop is prescribed to dogs for false pregnancy. This condition develops after estrus and has the following symptoms:

• swelling of the mammary glands;
• milk formation;
• rounding of the abdomen;
• behavioral changes, etc.

The medication is also used in the following situations:

• in idiopathic hyperprolactinemia;
• in hyperprolactinemia caused by pituitary adenoma;
• to stop lactation;
• when weaning puppies.

Using the medication when weaning puppies helps prevent the development of mastitis, which is especially important when introducing small offspring to formula early.

Consult a doctor before use. This medication has contraindications and can cause side effects if used incorrectly, so self-medication is not recommended.

Instructions for use

The medication is given to dogs once daily. The solution is added to their food. If the animal refuses to eat, the medication is forced into the mouth. To prevent the medication from spilling back or being spat out, the animal's head should be tilted back.

The dosage is calculated based on weight. For every 1 kg of body weight, 0.1 ml of the medication is required, which is equal to 3 drops. Female dogs are given the medication once every 4-6 days. The frequency of administrations is determined by the veterinarian.

If you miss a dose, correct it as soon as possible and resume your current treatment regimen. Do not increase the dose. Missing a dose may affect the effectiveness of the medication.

Contraindications

According to the instructions, Lacto-Stop is not used in pregnant dogs due to the risk of miscarriage. It is also not used in nursing females unless there is a need to stop lactation. If the dog is intolerant to any of the ingredients, a different medication should be chosen. treatmentIf an allergic reaction occurs, which may manifest as redness, itching, or other symptoms, stop taking Lacto-Stop.

This medication is contraindicated for use in patients with low blood pressure. It should be used with caution in patients with liver disease or kidney failure. Consulting a doctor is essential in these cases.

The drug should not be used in combination with antihypertensive drugs, as well as phenothiazine, metoclopramide, butyrophenone.

Lacto-Stop sometimes causes side effects, especially with overdose. During the first few days, drowsiness, apathy, and decreased appetite may be observed. This condition does not require special treatment and resolves within 2 days.

In case of overdose, the following side effects may occur:

• short-term loss of consciousness;
• drowsiness;
• swelling of the nasal mucosa.

In this case, the doctor prescribes symptomatic treatment. A single episode of vomiting is considered normal, but if it recurs, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Storage rules and precautions

Lacto-Stop must be stored according to simple rules:

• at temperatures from 5 to 25˚C;
• away from food and feed;
• out of reach of children;
• in a dry place, protected from ultraviolet radiation.

The solution in an unopened bottle remains effective for two years from the date of manufacture. If the bottle is opened, the medicine can be used within 28 days, after which it must be discarded. Do not use the medication after the expiration date.

When working with the medicine, the following rules must be observed:

1. After contact with the drug, wash your hands with soap.
2. If you are hypersensitive, it is best to avoid direct contact with the medication. For protection, wear rubber or latex gloves.
3. If the solution accidentally comes into contact with mucous membranes, they must be washed with plenty of running water.
4. If an allergy occurs, consult a doctor.
5. The medicine packaging should be disposed of with household waste. Vials cannot be reused.

Advantages and disadvantages

Lacto-Stop has many advantages:

• acts quickly and effectively;
• has an affordable price compared to its foreign counterpart;
• easy to use (the presence of a pipette makes it easier to measure out the required amount of medicine);
• does not affect the endocrine system, with the exception of the pituitary gland;
• comprehensively eliminates the problem (not only reduces prolactin levels, but also corrects behavior).

One of the disadvantages is the potential for side effects. For this reason, it is not recommended to use the drug without a doctor's prescription. Furthermore, the animal's condition should be closely monitored during the first treatment to ensure prompt treatment if necessary.

Owner reviews

Oksana, Chihuahua owner:

"Our little one developed a false pregnancy after her heat. The doctor prescribed Lacto-Stop. The medication left only positive impressions. There were no side effects, although the doctor warned about the possibility of drowsiness or vomiting. Our dog refuses to eat food if the medication is added, so we have to force-feed it, but the main thing is the results."

Victoria, the beagle's owner:

"Our dog experiences a false pregnancy almost every time she goes into heat. We used the expensive French drug Galastop before we discovered a domestic product. It's just as effective as the foreign medication. It's also well-tolerated and doesn't cause any side effects. The active ingredient is the same, so I don't see the point in overpaying. I recommend it to other dog owners."

Maria, the dachshund's owner:

"Lacto-Stop caused the dog to vomit heavily, which lasted all day. We had to discontinue the medication, so it's difficult to judge its effectiveness. The false pregnancy problem was resolved with folk remedies."

Veterinarian Reviews

Mikhail Alekseevich, a veterinarian with 16 years of experience:

"Lacto-Stop is an excellent alternative to the French medication. I usually prescribe the domestically produced version to my patients, and only recommend Galastop if it's unavailable in pharmacies. In my personal experience, this medication quickly eliminates the symptoms of false pregnancy. It often proves a real lifesaver for female dogs after their heat cycle. It's suitable for both small and large dogs."

Marina, a veterinarian with 8 years of experience:

"Lacto-Stop is a good medication, but dog owners who give it without a doctor's recommendation should remember that using hormonal medications is not without consequences. In cases of false pregnancy and cessation of lactation, it should be used in conjunction with dietary adjustments and increased exercise. Despite its high effectiveness, I would not recommend overuse of this medication."

Read also:

• Dog pregnancy in detail, day by day
• False pregnancy (pregnancy) in dogs
• Covinan for dogs