Prednisone for Canine Systemic Disease
A systemic disease in dogs is one that affects several organs and tissues, or the body as a whole. Prednisone is a synthetic corticosteroid that is administered to dogs for the treatment of a host of systemic diseases. Its anti-inflammatory activity is four times that of hydrocortisone. It attacks the inflammatory process at many different levels. Prednisone does have strong beneficial effects for many emergency conditions, with the potential to cause negative side effects if abused.
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Conditions Treated
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According to wedgewoodpetrx.com, some of the systemic conditions and diseases Prednisone may be prescribed for are spinal cord trauma, cushing's disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, lymphoma, mast cell tumors and other canine cancers, many forms of shock, neoplasia and dermatologic diseases, as well as most inflammatory orthopedic diseases.
Dosage
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Prednisone is a prescription medication only and should be administered as instructed by your vet. Prednisone comes in oral form, through injection and as a topical. Recommended dosage is one to three milligrams per pound of your dog. The prescription duration is dependent upon your veterinarian and the systemic disease being treated, as well as the characteristic response to the medication.
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Benefits
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The use of Prednisone for most systemic cancer diseases is expected to induce a partial or complete remission. Prednisone also works as an immunosuppressant, to protect against bacterial and viral infections. It works to suppress the production of antibodies as well. Prednisone works against inflammation to reduce heat, pain, redness and swelling.
Side Effects
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Some of the side effects your dog could experience are stomach ulcers, change in appetite, weight gain, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, thinning of the skin, cataracts, glaucoma and other unpredictable changes in your dog's behavior. Prednisone may hinder the normal function of the adrenal glands if used for a long period of time, unless weaned from the drug very slowly. This medication also causes your dog to drink more water, resulting in frequent urination.
Precautions
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Prednisone should not be administered as treatment for any systemic diseases without veterinarian supervision. Long term use can have some adverse effects on the immune system, as well as some life-threatening hormonal and metabolic changes. Speak with your vet regarding all precautions in giving your dog prednisone. This medication should not be given to your dog if he is on other drugs such as salicylate, phenytoin, phenobarbital, diuretics, rifampin, cyclosporin, erythromycin, mitotane and anticholinesterase, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Caution should be taken to avoid other vaccinations while taking prednisone.
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References
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