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Vetmedin Information

Vetmedin (Pimobendan) is a veterinary medication used to help dogs with heart disease and congestive heart failure (CHF) caused by Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD) or Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). MMVD is the most common heart disease in small and medium-sized dogs. DCM is a disease that weakens the heart muscle, often seen in large and giant breeds. Vetmedin is officially approved for dogs, but some veterinarians may use it off-label in cats with certain types of heart disease, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Inodilators like Pimobendan work by making it easier for the heart to pump blood and relieve symptoms of heart failure, helping dogs live more comfortably and for longer.

Vetmedin Side Effects

The most common side effects of Vetmedin may include anorexia, lethargy, diarrhea, and ataxia. Call your veterinarian right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Difficulty breathing;
• Elevated kidney levels;
• Fainting or collapse;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, breathing difficulties, itching, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat

Vetmedin Precautions

Do not administer Vetmedin if your dog is allergic to Pimobendan or other ingredients in this medication. Before you start administering this medication, tell your veterinarian about your dog’s medical history, including if it has aortic stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), impaired liver function, irregular heartbeats, is pregnant or breeding, or is lactating. Tell your veterinarian about all your dog’s medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Vetmedin and other medications, such as furosemide, enalapril, diltiazem, propranolol, verapamil, etc. Do not administer Vetmedin if your dog is pregnant, breeding, or lactating. The safety and effectiveness of this medicine in these groups have not been established. Always consult your veterinarian before giving Vetmedin (or any heart medication) to a pregnant or lactating dog.

Administer this medicine exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. Vetmedin comes as capsules and chewable tablets. Administer the capsules whole. Do not crush or open them. You can place the capsule directly into your dog’s mouth, followed by a small amount of water. You can offer the chewable tablet by hand or put it directly in your dog’s mouth to ensure it’s swallowed. If your dog is picky, you can disguise the food in a small amount, but avoid giving it with a full meal. Give Vetmedin about one hour before feeding. Food can reduce the absorption of Pimobendan, so it works best on an empty stomach. Vetmedin is given twice daily (every 12 hours), morning and evening. This is a veterinary medication. Always administer Vetmedin exactly as prescribed by a licensed veterinarian. Do not use for human consumption. Store Vetmedin at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Vetmedin?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Vetmedin.