Educational Articles
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Prednisolone ophthalmic is a topical steroid medication used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats, dogs, and other animals. Prednisolone ophthalmic is available as a sole agent or in combination with antimicrobials. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat other eye conditions. Prednisolone ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form. Avoid use in animals with viral or fungal infections, corneal ulceration, and birds.
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Prednisone/prednisolone is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label to treat Addison’s disease, inflammatory conditions, neoplasia (cancer), and immune-mediated diseases. Give this medication as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include increased drinking, increased urination, and increased appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, or pets with systemic fungal infections, viral infections, ulcers, tuberculosis, or Cushing’s disease. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Pregabalin (brand name Lyrica®), is an anticonvulsant and neuropathic pain medication. It is used to treat refractory or complex partial seizures and chronic neuropathic pain in small animals. It has been used to treat other types of pain in cats and dogs. It is used "off label" or "extra label" in animals. Pregabalin comes in capsule or liquid suspension form.
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Probiotics are given by mouth and are used over the counter to treat gastrointestinal upset. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are rare but may include gas or mild discomfort. Do not use in pets that are very sick and immunocompromised, or in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Propantheline bromide is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat diarrhea, slow heart rate, and incontinence. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include dry mouth, dry eyes, fast heart rate, difficulty urinating, and constipation. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or similar drugs, or pets that have certain heart, bladder, or intestinal problems, glaucoma, or myasthenia gravis. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Propranolol is given by mouth or injection and is used off-label to treat abnormal heart rhythms. Side effects are not common but may include lack of energy and diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or pets with heart block, heart failure, asthma, or a slow heart rate. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Pyrantel pamoate is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat intestinal parasites in many species. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.
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Pyridostigmine bromide is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat symptoms related to myasthenia gravis. Give as directed. Dose-related side effects include drooling, diarrhea, increased urination, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, and increased tear production. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other bromides, or in pets that have urinary or gastrointestinal tract obstructions or blockages. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Pyrimethamine is an antiprotozoal tablet given by mouth and used off label to treat certain parasitic infections. Common side effects include vomiting, low appetite, tiredness, and low blood cell counts. Cats are more likely to have more severe side effects. It should not be used in pets allergic to the medication and should be used with caution with kidney, liver, or bone marrow disease. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinary office. Pregnant women should handle this medication carefully.
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Ranitidine is given by mouth or injection and is used off-label to treat ulcers and erosions in the stomach and upper small intestine, reflux, or gastrointestinal motility issues. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include stomach upset. Do not use in pets with a history of allergies to this class of drugs. If a negative reaction occurs, call your veterinarian.