Is Cortisone Safe for Dogs?
Cortisone medications are likewise called glucocordicoids and corticosteroids, according to aetapet.com. They are typically utilized for dogs with Addison's disease, osteochondrosis, serious arthritis and allergies. They work by helping to decrease inflammation, which in turn helps to lower pain. Cortisone is an artificial medication that simulates the natural hormone cortisol, and can just be acquired with a vet's prescription.
Types
Cortisone medications can be found in oral tablets and injections. Tablets can be given one to three times a day, depending on your vet's recommendations.
Liver Problems
With long-lasting usage, there is a slight possibility of liver damage. Any dog on cortisone medications requires to take liver operating tests.
Generic Names
Cortisone medications are a family of drugs. Particular generic drug names consist of prednisone, betamethasone, cortisone acetate, dexamethasone and hydrocortisone.
Cortisone Dosage and Administration
Cortisone is just readily available by prescription, so your veterinarian will have to identify an appropriate dose based upon the condition being dealt with, your dog's size, his medical history and the seriousness of the symptoms.
Oral types of the medication are considered more secure than injectable types, however injections may be preferable for treating joint issues and arthritis.
Cortisone can trigger a variety of important side effects (more on these below), so it is generally utilized for the briefest period possible. Your vet will typically begin by administering reasonably high doses of the medication to stop the uncomfortable symptoms quickly, and then he or she will taper the dosage down till the minimum reliable dose is determined.
Cortisone Side Effects in Dogs
In spite of its effectiveness and value in treating several medical problems, cortisone can trigger a list of side effects. Some of the most common side effects occur relatively quickly, while others just appear after long-lasting usage.
A few of the most common short-term side effects consist of:
- Poor resistance to bacterial, fungal, and viral infections
- Increased thirst and water usage
- Frequent urination
- Increased appetite and food intake
- Reduced energy level
- Weight gain
- Panting
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Warning
Never give human cortisone medications to your dog. They will be far too strong for a dog and will get him sick.
Source: aetapet.com/taper-off-prednisone-dog-dosage/