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Educational Articles

Medications & Supplements

  • Ursodiol is given by mouth and is used off label to treat gallbladder and biliary liver diseases. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects are uncommon, but may include diarrhea and mild discomfort. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other bile acid products, or in rabbits, guinea pigs, or rodents. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Velagliflozin (brand name Senvelgo®) is an oral glycemic control medication used in cats with diabetes mellitus. It is used to lower blood sugar levels in cats with diabetes mellitus not previously treated with insulin. Velagliflozin comes in liquid suspension form.

  • Voriconazole is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat fungal infections. Side effects are not well-known but may include vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or in cats unless absolutely necessary. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Compounded medications are not approved by federal authorities. They are medications that have been altered to provide more accurate dosing or easier administration. They have not been tested for safety, stability, potency, or efficacy.

  • Wheat gluten + monosodium glutamate (brand name For-Bid) is a food additive commonly used to deter coprophagy (eating stool). Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects have not been reported. Do not use concurrently with steroids. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary clinic.

  • White willow bark is given by mouth and is used over the counter to treat pain and inflammation in cats and dogs. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Side effects may include stomach upset and skin rash. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or aspirin, or in pets that are pregnant, nursing, or very young. It should be used cautiously in pets with certain medical conditions. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.

  • Zonisamide is an off-label, oral, systemic medication used to treat seizures alone or with other anticonvulsants. Side effects include sedation, uncoordinated walking, inappetence, liver disease, urinary stones, and metabolic acidosis. It is contraindicated in patients with liver disease or in pregnant or breeding animals.