Vetmedin (Pimobendan) is a prescription medication used in dogs to manage mild, moderate or severe congetive heart failure due to atrioventricular valvular insufficiency or dilated cardiomyopathy. This medication increases the ability of the heart to pump blood. Pimobendan is a calcium sensitizer and a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE3) with positive inotropic and vasodilator effects. It works by opening blood vessels leading to decreased blood pressure and less work for the heart. Pimobendan also increases the sensitivity of the proteins in the heart to calcium, improving its ability to contract.
Manufacturer Information
Canadian Pharmacy King currently offers the brand Vetmedin from Australia manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim. There is no generic available for this medication. Vetmedin is available in the strength of 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg and 5 mg tablets.
Pimobendan can cause a pet to experience side effects, the common side effects may include:
• Diarrhea;
• Depression;
• Difficulty breathing;
• Incoordination;
• Lack of appetite;
• Weakness
The serious side effects of Vetmedin may include:
• An increase in nitrogen-based waste products in the bloodstream;
• Coughing;
• Excess fluid build-up in the chest cavity;
• Fainting;
• Heart murmurs;
• Sudden death
Vetmedin is for use in humans. Pimobendan should not be used to treat hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis. This medication can increase incidence of arrhythmias. This medication should not be used in pregnant animals, nursing animals or those less than six-months old. Calcium channel blockers and certain beta blockers may decrease the effects of Pimobendan.