Pimobendan (Vetmedin)
Brands: Vetmedin
Pimobendan is a cardiac drug used in dogs to manage heart failure.
Used for
- Congestive heart failure
- Dilated cardiomyopathy
- Mitral valve disease
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- twice daily
- Duration
- As prescribed by a veterinarian
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- Not typically used in cats
dog
- Large dogs
- 0.2-0.3 mg/kg twice daily
- Small dogs
- 0.2-0.3 mg/kg twice daily
- Medium dogs
- 0.2-0.3 mg/kg twice daily
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Pimobendan
Side effects
Common
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
Rare
- Increased heart rate
Severe
- Severe drop in blood pressure requiring vet attention
Do not use when
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Aortic stenosis
Interacts with
- Beta-blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
Warnings
- Use cautiously in dogs with arrhythmias
- Monitor heart function regularly
Pimobendan (Vetmedin) questions
Can Pimobendan be used in cats?
No, it is not typically used in cats.
Can Pimobendan cause increased thirst?
Increased thirst is not a common side effect.
How quickly does Pimobendan work?
It typically starts to work within a few hours.
Are there any dietary restrictions?
Consult with your vet about diet plans.
Is Pimobendan safe for pregnant dogs?
Use with caution in pregnant dogs.
Full drug detail
Overview
Pimobendan, commonly known by its brand name Vetmedin, is a veterinary cardiac drug primarily used in dogs to manage heart failure. It is an inodilator, meaning it has both inotropic and vasodilator effects, which help the heart pump more efficiently.
How It Works
Pimobendan works by increasing the heart muscle's ability to contract (positive inotropic effect) and by dilating blood vessels (vasodilation). This dual action reduces the workload on the heart and improves cardiac output.
Uses & Indications
Pimobendan is used in dogs to manage:
- Congestive heart failure (CHF)
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
- Mitral valve disease (MVD)
Dosage Guidelines
Dosage of Pimobendan should always be determined by a veterinarian. Typical doses are as follows:
Dogs
- Small dogs: 0.2-0.3 mg/kg body weight
- Medium dogs: 0.2-0.3 mg/kg body weight
- Large dogs: 0.2-0.3 mg/kg body weight
Administration
Pimobendan is administered orally, usually given twice daily, approximately one hour before feeding.
Side Effects
Common
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
Rare
- Increased heart rate
Severe
- Severe drop in blood pressure requiring veterinary attention
Precautions & Warnings
Pimobendan should not be used in cases of:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Aortic stenosis
Warnings
- Use cautiously in dogs with arrhythmias
- Monitor heart function regularly
Drug Interactions
Pimobendan may interact with:
- Beta-blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
FAQ
-
Can Pimobendan be used in cats? No, it is not typically used in cats.
-
Can Pimobendan cause increased thirst? Increased thirst is not a common side effect.
-
How quickly does Pimobendan work? It typically starts to work within a few hours.
-
Are there any dietary restrictions? Consult with your vet about diet plans.
-
Is Pimobendan safe for pregnant dogs? Use with caution in pregnant dogs.
Meta Information
Meta Title
Pimobendan for Dogs: Uses, Dosage & Side Effects
Meta Description
Learn about Pimobendan (Vetmedin) for dogs, including uses, dosage, side effects, and precautions. Consult your vet for guidance.