Acepromazine: A sedative typically used in dogs and cats for mild sedation, such as for fear of thunderstorms. Side effects can include decrease in blood pressure, and rarely aggressiveness and excitement. It should be used cautiously in animals with known heart disease.
Albon: An antibiotic and antiprotozoal typically used to treat coccidial infections in dogs and cats. Albon is actually a combination of sulfadimethoxine and ormetoprim, making it in the "potentiated sulfa" class. As with any antibiotic, gastro-intestinal upset (diarrhea, vomit, or loss of appetite) is a possible side effect.
Amitriptyline: Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant used for separation anxiety in dogs and excessive grooming, spraying, and anxiety in cats. In our clinic it is most commonly used to help with feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). The most common side effect is sedation. Other possible adverse effects include diarrhea, vomit and hyperexcitability (dogs).
Amoxicillin: An antibiotic in the penicillin family typically used to treat or prevent bacterial infections. As with any antibiotic, gastro-intestinal upset (diarrhea, vomit, or loss of appetite) is a possible side effect. Rarely, pets have shown allergies to amoxicillin. Very similar to ampicillin.
Anipryl: Also known as selegiline hydrochloride, this medication can sometimes help with "Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome" (CDS). CDS describes a set of symptoms we might see in older animals. Anipryl may help with signs such as disorientation, decreased interaction with family members, sleeping more, wandering aimlessly or pacing excessively.
Atopica: Also known as cyclosporine, this is a potent immunosuppressive agent approved for the control of atopic dermatitis in dogs. This drug may be used as an alternative to steroids in the control of severe allergies, thereby reducing many of the undesirable side effects of long-term steroid use. The most common side effect was intestinal upset. Gingival hyperplasia may occur during initial dosing. Regular blood testing is recommended during administration.
Atropine: Atropine is sometimes prescribed as a topical pain reliever for certain eye conditions. It also dilates the pupil; once dilated with atropine, the pupil can remain dilated for up to 144 hours in the dog or cat. A possible side effect in the dog or cat is salivation just after applying.
Baytril: An antibiotic in the fluoroquinolone family typically used to treat or prevent bacterial infections. Baytril is actually a trade name; the true name of the drug is enrofloxacin. Baytril should not be used in young, growing dogs because of a potential cartilage effect. As with any antibiotic, gastro-intestinal upset (diarrhea, vomit, or loss of appetite) is a possible side effect.
BNP ointment: General name for a triple antibiotic ointment used topically in the eye to treat or prevent bacterial infections in the conjunctiva or cornea. Contains bacitracin, neomycin, and polymixin and is produced under many different trade names.
BNP-HC ointment: An antibiotic (see BNP ointment above) and corticosteroid combination used topically in the eye to treat some cases of irritation and swelling in the eye tissues. Because of the corticosteroid component, this ointment could slow or prevent healing of infectious eye diseases and should be used with care in these cases. The HC stands for hydrocortisone. As with BNP ointment, this can be found under many different trade names.
Cephalexin: An antibiotic in the cephalosporin family typically used to treat or prevent bacterial infections. Uncommon side effects include salivation, excitement, and rapid respiration in dogs and fever in cats. As with any antibiotic, gastro-intestinal upset (diarrhea, vomit, or loss of appetite) is a possible side effect.
Cestex: Cestex is used exclusively for the treatment of tapeworms in dogs and cats. Side effects are extremely uncommon. Giving this medication with food may help prevent gastro-intestinal upset.
Cimetidine: Cimetidine is more commonly known by its trade name Tagamet. It is what's called a H2 antagonist, meaning it reduces gastric production in the stomach. It is most often used as treatment for gastrointestinal ulcers, gastritis, and gastric reflux (like heartburn).It also is sometimes used for certain tumors, such as gastrinomas and mast cell tumors. Side effects are extremely rare in animals.
Clavamox: An antibiotic in the penicillin family available in liquid or tablets and used to treat or prevent bacterial infections. Rarely, allergic reactions are seen to Clavamox. As with any antibiotic, gastro-intestinal upset (diarrhea, vomit, or loss of appetite) is a possible side effect. Clavamox is a combination of amoxicillin and clavulinic acid, and will be effective against a range of bacteria than amoxicillin alone.
Clindamycin: Also known as Antirobe, this antibiotic is used to prevent or treat bacterial infections. It is particularly useful against dental and anal sac infections., where anaerobic bacteria are often involved. As with any antibiotic, gastro-intestinal upset (diarrhea, vomit, or loss of appetite) is a possible side effect.
Clomicalm: Clomicalm is known generically as clomipramine HCl. It is a tricyclic antidepressant used mainly for separation anxiety in dogs. Clomicalm should not be used in dogs with a history of seizures or in male breeding dogs. Side effects can include vomit, lethargy, and diarrhea. Treatment of separation anxiety with Clomicalm should always include behavior modification efforts as well.
Deramaxx: Also known as deracoxib, this is a non-narcotic, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory used to reduce inflammation, fever and pain associated with surgery or osteoarthritis. This class of drugs may be associated with gastrointestinal and renal toxicity, and monitoring of organ function by getting regular blood tests is recommended to avoid problems.DES (Diethylstilbesterol): This is a non-steroidal estrogen agent that can help with urinary incontinence. This medication should never be given to a pregnant animal. We recommend monitoring red and white blood cells with a CBC (complete blood count) every two months for our patients on this medication because it can sometimes cause problems with an animals bone marrow. As with any medication, report any abnormal signs (such as vomit, lethargy or diarrhea) to your vet immediately.
Diazepam: A sedative, muscle relaxant, anti-convulsant and appetite stimulant. Diazepam is used for a number of behavioral problems including inappropriate urination in cats. It also is commonly used to stimulate appetite in cats. Side effects can include irritability, depression and excitement.
Diphenhydramine: An antihistamine used to inhibit histamine release and thus inhibit allergic reactions. It also has been used to prevent motion sickness in dogs and cats. Side effects could include lethargy, dry mouth, vomit, or diarrhea. Excitement has been seen at high doses. Other antihistamines we use include hydroxizine and clemastine.
Enacard: Also known as enalapril, this drug is used to reduce blood pressure and decrease the workload of the heart in certain cardiac conditions. Side effects are usually limited to the GI tract and include vomit, diarrhea, and anorexia.
Furosemide: Also known as Lasix, this drug is a diuretic typically used in heart disease to prevent edema. Increased urination should be expected, and it is important to be sure any animal taking Lasix has plenty of water available. Weakness, restlessness, and gastro-intestinal upset are other possible side effects.
Heartgard: A common heartworm preventative. The active ingredient in this drug is ivermectin. Care should be used when giving this drug to Collies or Collie-mix breeds. Tremors or other neurological signs are rare side effects. Iverheart is another brand of preventative.
Levothyroxine: A synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism in dogs and cats. At the correct dose, side effects are not seen. At greater than necessary doses, excitement, panting, increased appetite and thirst, or increased amount of urination may be seen. Levothyroxine is sold under many different trade names.
Metoclopramide: An antiemetic, this drug is used to prevent vomiting in certain conditions by enhancing the motility of the upper GI tract. Side effects may include constipation, nausea, and changes in behavior. Metoclopramide should not be used if there is a GI obstruction. Keep these tablets out of direct light.
Metronidazole: An antibiotic and antiprotozoal, Metronidazole is used to treat certain bacterial infections, especially those caused by anaerobic bacteria, and Giardia infections. It also is commonly used to treat general colitis. Uncommon side effects include neurological signs, lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite, vomit and diarrhea.
Optimmune: The active ingredient in this eye medication is cyclosporine. It is used to stimulate tear production in dogs and cats with dry eyes or pannus. No known side effects have been noted with topical application.
Otomax: An antibiotic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory ear ointment for treatment of bacterial or yeast infections in ears. It is important that the ear is clean prior to administration in order for this medication to act. Rare temporary hearing loss has been seen in dogs treated with this medication. Also sold as MalOtic.
Panalog: A topical ointment with antifungal, antibacterial, antipruritic (anti-itch), and anti-inflammatory properties used for a variety of skin conditions. It is not recommended for deep wounds or if pus is present. Rare superficial reactions have occurred causing redness and swelling. Oral ingestion can cause increased thirst, urination, and hunger. Also found under a variety of other trade names.
Phenobarbital: A barbiturate used to treat epilepsy in dogs and cats. Dogs may initially show anxiety or depression with this medication. Increased urination, thirst and hunger may occur. An increase in liver enzymes can be noted with long-term use and may be necessary to monitor.
Phenylpropanolamine: This medication is used to treat urinary incontinence in dogs and cats by increasing urethral sphincter tone. Side effects may include increased heart rate and blood pressure, decreased nasal congestion and appetite, restlessness or irritability.
Prednisone: A synthetic glucocorticoid used for a myriad of reasons to suppress the immune system and decrease inflammation.. Many side effects are possible including increased thirst and urination, increased appetite, thinning of haircoat, and muscle weakness. With long-term use, an increased chance of developing diabetes is seen. For these reasons, a lowest effective dose is sought when using prednisone. It is also necessary to wean the patient off of high doses of prednisone, not quit suddenly, as the body becomes accustomed to the synthetic form and stops making its own glucocorticoids. Prednisolone is similar but has a slightly different metabolism.
Revolution: The active ingredient in Revolution is selamectin (related to ivermectin in Heartgard). In cats selamectin kills adult fleas and prevents eggs from hatching. It also prevents heartworm disease, ear mites, intestinal hookworm and roundworm. Selamectin prevents all of the above in dogs as well as sarcoptic mange and the Dermacentor tick.
Rimadyl: Also known as carprofen, this non-steroidal anti-inflammatory is used to reduce inflammation, fever and pain. It is similar to aspirin but less likely to cause GI disturbances, and most commonly is used to treat arthritis in dogs. Mild GI upset has been seen in a few dogs. More severe liver damage has rarely been reported.
Strongid: An oral medication used to treat roundworms and hookworms in cats and dogs. Side effects are very uncommon but could include vomit. The active ingredient is pyrantel pamoate.
Sulfasalazine: We will treat colitis (inflammation of the colon) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) with this medication. It is an antibacterial and an anti inflammatory agent. We recommend blood work every six months if your animal is taking this chronically. Rarely, sulfasalazine can cause "dry eye" or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. (KCS). Be sure to report any abnormal ocular discharge or redness right away.
Tapazole: Also known as methimazole, this medication is used for hyperthyroidism in cats and works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormone. Side effects could include anorexia, vomit, lethargy, or bleeding tendencies. Most GI effects resolve with time, even if the drug is continued.
Temaril-P: Actually is trimeprazine (an antihistamine) and prednisolone (a glucocorticoid). This medication is used mainly as an anti-itch treatment. Side effects could include sedation, restlessness, tremors, or any noted under prednisone (see above). Like prednisone, a lowest effective dose of this drug is sought to reduce side effects.
Theophylline: A bronchodilator used mainly for respiratory and cardiac conditions. Side effects could include excitement, vomit, diarrhea, or increased thirst or appetite. Aminophylline and Brethine are two other bronchodilators that we might use.
Top of page