Pimobendan for Dogs: Medication & Safety Guide

Schedule 4 (Prescription Only): Pimobendan is a prescription medication registered by the APVMA for use in dogs in Australia. It is commonly found under brand names such as Vetmedin or Cardisure. It is indicated for the treatment of certain types of congestive heart failure. This medication must only be used under the direct supervision and prescription of a registered veterinarian.

For detailed technical data, you can view the official Product Information (PI) via the APVMA PubCRIS database.

Pimobendan is a heart medication used to manage dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF) caused by conditions such as Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) or Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM).

It is prescribed to help the heart pump blood more efficiently, improve the dog's quality of life, and increase life expectancy in dogs with heart disease.

Pimobendan is known as an inodilator.

It performs two critical functions: it increases the strength with which the heart muscle contracts (positive inotropy) and relaxes the blood vessels throughout the body (vasodilation). This combination reduces the "workload" on the heart, making it easier to circulate oxygenated blood.

Chewable Tablets: Often flavoured to encourage easy administration, like Vetmedin Flavoured Chewable Tablets and Cardisure Flavoured Tablets for Dogs.

Capsules: Standard hard-shell capsules for dogs that prefer them hidden in food, like Vetmedin Capsules.

Oral solution: A liquid format to simpler administration, like Vetmedin Oral Solution for Dogs.

Your veterinarian will determine the dose based on your dog's weight. Pimobendan is typically administered twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart.

Safety Parity Notice: While life-saving for many dogs, it is important to monitor your pet for the following potential reactions:

• Digestive Issues: Mild vomiting, diarrhoea, or a temporary loss of appetite.

This medication should not be used in the following circumstances:

• Heart Conditions: Not for use in dogs with heart conditions where increasing heart output is not appropriate, such as narrowing of the aortic valve (aortic stenosis).

The following conditions require careful consideration and monitoring by your vet:

• Diabetes: Use with caution in diabetic dogs, as some formulations may affect blood glucose monitoring.
• Pregnancy: Use with caution for pregnant, lactating or breeding dogs.
• Monitoring: Dogs on Pimobendan require regular veterinary check-ups, often including chest X-rays or ultrasounds (echocardiograms) to monitor heart progress.

Temperature: Store at room temperature (below 25°C) in a dry area away from direct sunlight.

Security: Keep the medication in its original child-resistant container and store it strictly out of reach of children and other animals.

How long does it take to see an improvement?
Many owners notice an improvement in their dog's energy levels, appetite, and breathing (reduced coughing) within 7 to 10 days of starting treatment.

Why must it be given before food?
Pimobendan is absorbed much more effectively when the stomach is empty.

Giving it with food can significantly reduce the amount of medication that reaches the bloodstream.

Will my dog need to stay on this for the rest of their life?

Yes. Pimobendan manages the symptoms of heart disease but does not cure the underlying condition. It is typically a lifelong medication once heart failure has been diagnosed.

Can I give it at the same time as other heart meds?
Pimobendan is frequently prescribed alongside other heart medications like diuretics Frusemide) or ACE inhibitors. However, always confirm the specific schedule with your veterinarian.

If your veterinarian has determined that Pimobendan is appropriate for your pet and has issued a valid Australian prescription, you can fulfil it through our pharmacy service.

Learn more about VLP Pharmacy and the prescription ordering process medications like Pimobendan.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new medication for your pet.