Vetmedin for dogs

Vetmedin is a modern, effective medication classified as a cardiotonic. It is typically prescribed for conditions that cause heart failure. While it can significantly prolong a pet's life, it must be taken for life in most cases. Vetmedin is safe for dogs and almost never causes side effects, but it is important to read the instructions.

Composition and release form

The active ingredient in Vetmedin is pimobendan, which has vasodilatory and inotropic effects. Since the drug is intended for oral administration, it also contains the following excipients:

• microcrystalline cellulose;
• colloidal silicon;
• magnesium stearate;
• povidone;
• citric acid.

The formula also includes a meat additive, which gives the medication a pleasant aroma for dogs, making it easy for them to consume.

Vetmedin is produced by a German manufacturer in two forms: tablets and gelatin capsules. Depending on the active ingredient concentration and intended use, the pills come in strengths of 1.25, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg.

The tablets are oval-shaped and light brown in color. White specks may be present. The tablets have a rough surface and a central dividing line, which allows for proper division for accurate dosing.

Both tablets and gelatin capsules are packaged in polypropylene bottles with screw caps. Typically, a package contains 50 or 100 tablets (capsules). Each bottle is placed in a cardboard box and comes with instructions.

Pharmacological properties

Numerous reviews from dog owners confirm that Vetmedin effectively combats heart disease and significantly prolongs the life of pets. It has a dual effect on the body:

• increases cardiac output;
• dilates blood vessels, thereby improving blood supply to organs and systems of the body.

The active ingredient, pimobendan, provides a dual effect. It increases the sensitivity of the heart muscle to calcium, thereby increasing cardiac output. Pimobendan also inhibits the production of phosphodiesterase-3. This leads to vasodilation and improved blood flow.

The drug is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream. The half-life of the active substance is approximately 15 minutes, and elimination takes approximately 2 hours. Most of the drug is eliminated from the body in the feces.

According to GOST, Vetmedin is classified as a low-hazard substance. Studies have revealed no mutagenic, embryotoxic, or teratogenic effects.

Indications for use

Taking a medication that increases cardiac output and dilates blood vessels is prescribed for the following health problems:

• in congestive heart failure;
• with endocarditis of the mitral valve;
• with dilated cardiomyopathy;
• at heart failure, which is characterized by a progressive stage;
• for other diseases that provoke disruption of the heart muscle.

Treatment with this medication is only permitted upon a doctor's prescription after diagnosis. The following symptoms may indicate heart disease:

• cough that gets worse at night;
• dyspnea;
• fatigue and lethargy;
• decreased activity;
• atrial fibrillation.

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor and undergo an examination. Avoid self-medication and do not use Vetmedin without a doctor's prescription.

Instructions for use

Although the price of Vetmedin for dogs is quite high compared to other medications, excellent treatment results can be achieved by following the instructions. The average daily dose of pimobendan is 0.5 mg per kilogram of body weight, but this may be adjusted upward or downward depending on the animal's condition, age, chronic diseases, and other factors. The following dosages should be followed:

1. For animals under 5 kilograms, 1 tablet of 1.25 mg is required.
2. If the pet’s weight is between 5 and 10 kg, the daily dose is 2.5 mg (1 tablet of 2.5 mg or 2 of 1.25 mg).
3. For an animal weighing from 11 to 20 kg, 5 mg of the active substance will be required, which is two tablets of 2.5 mg.
4. For dogs weighing 21 to 40 kg, the daily dose of pimobendan is 10 mg (2 tablets of 5 mg).
5. For pets weighing between 41 and 60 kg, 20 mg of the active substance should be given per day (4 tablets of 5 mg).
6. For dogs weighing over 60 kg, the daily dose of pimobendan is 30 mg (6 tablets of 5 mg).

The exact dosage is determined by the doctor after examining the pet. During treatment, the dosage may be increased or decreased depending on the patient's condition. Without it, the pet's chances of survival are significantly reduced.

The daily dose is divided into two doses. The medication is administered morning and evening, 12 hours apart. Tablets or capsules should be taken one hour before meals.

The effectiveness of Vetmedin can be reduced by beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers, so they should not be taken together.

Contraindications and side effects

Like other medications, Vetmedin has contraindications. It should not be used in the following cases:

• in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy;
• with aortic stenosis;
• in diabetes mellitus;
• in case of congenital heart defects;
• in case of liver dysfunction and liver failure.

Not for use on puppies under 6 months of age. Pregnant and lactating female dogs may be prescribed the medication, but only after a doctor has assessed all risks.

Owner reviews confirm that side effects are extremely rare when Vetmedin is used for dogs strictly according to the instructions. Pets generally tolerate the treatment well. Occasionally, the following side effects are observed:

• tachycardia;
• vomit;
• heart murmurs;
• diarrhea;
• lethargy and apathy;
• lack of appetite;
• heart rhythm disturbance.

If adverse effects are minor, the doctor will reduce the dosage. If the condition is severe or anorexia or lethargy is imminent, the medication is discontinued completely and adsorbents, such as activated charcoal, are used to inactivate the substance and accelerate its elimination from the body, as well as medications to restore fluid and electrolyte balance.

If any side effects occur, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Precautions and storage rules

When working with Vetmedin, you should follow simple safety rules:

1. Do not drink, smoke or eat while in contact with the drug.
2. After contact with the drug, wash your hands thoroughly, using soap.
3. People with hypersensitivity should avoid direct contact with the medication. It is best to use rubber gloves.
4. If you experience an allergy, don't delay your visit to the doctor. Be sure to bring the medication packaging or instructions with you.
5. If the drug comes into contact with mucous membranes, it causes irritation, so it is important to wash it off immediately.

Vetmedin should be stored at a temperature of 8 to 25°C, away from sunlight. Keep out of reach of children and animals. Do not use the medication after its expiration date; dispose of it with household waste.

Price

The cost of Vetmedin for dogs is quite high and depends on the number of tablets in the package and the concentration of the active ingredient:

• 50 pieces of 1.25 mg – 1900-2100 rubles;
• 100 pieces of 1.25 mg – 3600-3900 rubles;
• 50 pieces of 2.5 mg – 3200-3500 rubles;
• 100 pieces of 2.5 mg – 6400-6600 rubles;
• 50 pieces of 5 mg – 3800-4000 rubles;
• 100 pieces of 5 mg – 7400-7500 rubles;
• 50 pieces of 10 mg – 5900-6000 rubles;
• 1000 pieces of 10 mg – 8200-8900 rubles.

Owner reviews

Lyudmila, owner of a 9-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog:

"The doctor prescribed Vetmedin to us after he was diagnosed with dilated myelopathy. The medication was given in combination with other medications, so it was difficult to assess its effectiveness. One day, financial difficulties arose, and we were unable to purchase Vetmedin in time. The cough returned very quickly. When treatment was resumed, the dog improved significantly."

Svetlana, owner of a cocker spaniel:

"In 2014, our dog was diagnosed with DCM. The disease was in its early stages. The doctor prescribed several medications, including Vetmedin. We've been taking it for almost three years now. Our dog has improved significantly, and there have been no side effects. The doctor warned that Vetmedin must be taken continuously without interruption."

Veterinarian Reviews

Artem Pavlyuchenko, veterinarian:

"Cardiologists always prescribe Vetmedin for heart failure. When dosed correctly, it's completely safe for animals. Statistics show that it increases life expectancy by several years for those with heart disease."

Andrey, a veterinarian with extensive experience:

"I always prescribe Vetmedin for heart disease (failure), as it gives furry patients a significantly longer chance of survival. Compared to other medications used to treat heart failure, it is highly effective. However, this only applies to the original medication. There are many counterfeit products on the market due to Vetmedin's high price. It's important to buy the genuine product, otherwise it could worsen your pet's condition."

Read also:

• Heart attack in a dog
• Dog Seizures: Causes and Treatment
• Why does my dog ​​cough as if it's choking?