Use of Trental in Dogs With Allergies

Manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis, Trental is the brand name for pentoxifylline, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor drug that can be used to treat skin allergies in dogs. Veterinarians sometimes prefer this medication over other anti-allergy drugs, such as antihistamines.

Improving Microcirculation

Trental is used in humans to treat vascular disease caused by microcirculation impairment. In dogs, improving microcirculation enhances healing of skin lesions and decreases inflammation.

Treatment Options

Veterinarians often use steroids and antihistamines to treat canine skin allergies after changes in the dog's environment, grooming and food do not show results. Trental is an alternative medication when people would prefer not to use antihistamine drugs, if the dog does not tolerate them well, or if they do not solve the problem.

Dosage Frequency

Veterinarians note inconsistencies with the effectiveness of Trental and commonly disagree on the size of the dose. The standard dosage is once daily or every other day. Depending on the situation, the vet may recommend administering Trental up to three times a day.

Side Effects

Side effects are uncommon, with the most likely being lack of appetite and vomiting. Trental is in the same category of drugs as caffeine and rarely causes restlessness, fast heartbeat or dizziness in dogs.

Contraindications

Some dogs should not be given Trental. These include dogs sensitive to xanthine drugs, those with an increased risk of hemorrhage, or impaired liver or kidney function.

References

• Treatments for canine allergies
• Pentoxifylline for veterinary use
• Pentoxifylline as dermatologic therapy