Facts about Long Term Medications
Rimadyl and Etogesic: These drugs are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents that reduce inflammation, fever, and pain. These drugs are generally safe for dogs and have few side affects when given as directed. Some vomiting and/or diarrhea have been reported. Liver and kidney function blood tests should be taken prior to administration, and 2 weeks afterwards to ensure safety. Regular blood tests every 6 months should be taken in order to determine any abnormalities with liver and kidney function. Potentially fatal bleeding ulcers in the stomach and intestines may result if given with aspirin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or Prednisone. Use with caution in patients receiving Enalapril or Digoxin. Rimadyl or Etogesic may decrease the effects of Lasix and Phenobarbital.
Enacard (Enalapril): This is an ACE inhibitor used to treat many forms of heart disease. Blood levels should be taken prior to use, 30 days after administration, and every 6 months to ensure proper kidney and electrolyte levels. Reported side affects include GI upset, low blood pressure, elevated serum potassium and kidney damage. Lasix dosages may be lowered if used with Enalapril.
Lasix:(Furosemide): This is a diuretic commonly used to treat pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) associated with congestive heart failure. A CBC, liver and kidney function tests, and electrolyte levels should be taken prior to administration and 30 days afterwards to ensure safety. Regular blood tests should be taken every 6 months. Reported side affects include increased thirst and urination, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, GI upset, anemia, leukemia, restlessness and weakness. Caution should be used when Lasix is administered with the following drugs: Theophylline, steroids, Rimadyl, Etogesic, digoxin or insulin.
Prednisone: Steroids are commonly used to treat allergic conditions, especially allergic dermatitis. Liver and kidney function blood tests should be taken prior to long term administration, then in 30 days to ensure safety. Regular blood tests every 6 months are taken to detect any abnormalities with liver and kidney function. This drug has few side affects if given on an alternating-day basis. Common side affects include increased appetite, thirst and urination. Long term daily usage or high dosage usage may lead to potentially fatal Cushing's disease, GI ulcers, increases appetite and weight gain, panting, dull dry hair coat, activation of diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, pancreatitis, muscle wasting and behavioral changes. DO NOT GIVE WITH Rimadyl, Etogesic, Tylenol or aspirin.
Hydroxazine and diphenhydramine (benedryl): Antihistamines are often used in the treatment of allergic conditions. Blood tests should be taken after 1 month of usage, then every 6 months. Most common side affects are sedation. Antihistamines should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma, hyperthyroidism and heart disease.
Phenylpropanolamine: This drug is commonly used to treat urethral incontinence in spayed females. Blood tests should be taken prior to long term usage, after 1 month, then ever 6 months to ensure continued safety. Common side effects include hyperexcitability, increased heart rate, and decreased appetite. Caution should be used when administering with Anipryl, Rimadyl, Etogesic, aspirin or Tylenol.
Phenobarbital: This drug is used to treat epilepsy and seizure disorders. Blood tests are taken prior to administration. Phenobarb levels are then taken every month until normal blood levels are achieved. Liver function tests are taken every 6 months to a year. Blood tests should be taken 4-6 hours pre-pill when measuring Phenobarb levels, and 4-6 hours after the pill is given to measure liver values. Common side effects include lethargy and depression, anxiety or agitation, increased thirst, appetite and urination. Phenobarb may decrease the action of antihistamines, steroids, and doxycycline.
Soloxine: This is used to treat hypothyroidism. After diagnosing your pet with low levels of the thyroid hormone, tests are taken monthly until normal values are established. Once a year testing is recommended. Blood levels should be taken 4-6 hours post pill administration. At proper levels, their are no side effects. Soloxine may alter insulin and digoxin requirements. Many drugs may affect thyroid levels.
Tapazole: This drug is used to treat hyperthyroidism. Because of the potential for serious complications, blood tests are very important when using this drug. A CBC should be taken prior to starting Tapazole. Thyroid levels, a CBC and liver and kidney functions should be checked every 2 weeks until proper levels are achieved. These blood tests should be repeated every 6 months to ensure proper dosing. Patients with liver disease or clotting disorders should not receive the drug. 15-20% of all cats treated develop adverse effects. You should notify the hospital if you observe decreased appetite, vomiting, lethargy, or any abnormality that may concern you.