Vetoryl Capsules for Dogs

What are Vetoryl Capsules?

Vetoryl Capsules contain an adrenosuppressant drug that is used to treat hyperadrenocorticism in dogs. Vetoryl Capsules are a prescription drug for dogs.

Hyperadrenocorticism (also known as Cushing’s disease) is a condition in which excess levels of the hormone cortisol are produced. Cortisol is normally released from the adrenal gland into the bloodstream at times of stress. In dogs with hyperadrenocorticism, the level of cortisol produced is excessive and, if left untreated, becomes incapacitating.

Characteristic signs are:

• Passing large quantities of urine .
• Frequent urination and possible incontinence .
• Excessive drinking .
• Ravenous appetite .
• Lethargy or decreased activity .
• Excessive panting .
• Pot belly .
• Thin skin .
• Hair loss or recurrent skin diseases .
• Muscle wasting .

Your dog may not necessarily display all of these signs.

What should I talk to my veterinarian about before giving Vetoryl Capsules?

Periodic follow-up and laboratory testing are important for continual safe use of Vetoryl Capsules. Talk with your veterinarian about how often your dog will need to be examined.

Talk to your veterinarian about:

• What tests might be done before Vetoryl Capsules are prescribed.
• How often your dog may need to be examined by your veterinarian.
• The risks and benefits of using Vetoryl Capsules.

Tell your veterinarian if your dog has ever had the following medical problems:

• Liver disease .
• Kidney disease .

Tell your veterinarian about:

• Any other medical problems or allergies that your dog has now or has had.
• If your dog is pregnant, nursing or if you plan to breed your dog.
• Any medications your dog is taking, including over-the-counter products and nutritional supplements.

What are the possible side effects that may occur in my dog during therapy?

Vetoryl Capsules, like other drugs, may cause some side effects. Serious side effects have been reported in dogs taking Vetoryl Capsules. Serious side effects can occur with or without warning and result in death.

Side effects generally involve an over suppression of the adrenal glands (hypoadrenocorticism, also known as Addison’s Disease). Look for the following side effects that may indicate your dog is having a problem with Vetoryl Capsules or may have another medical problem:

• Depression, lethargy or decrease in activity .
• Change in bowel movements (such as diarrhea or loose stools) .
• Vomiting .
• Stops eating or loses all interest in food .
• Weakness and collapse .

It is important to stop therapy and contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog has a medical problem or side effect from Vetoryl Capsule therapy. If you have additional questions about possible side effects, talk to your veterinarian.

As Vetoryl Capsules control the hyperadrenocorticism, there should be a decrease in food and water consumption to normal levels. There should also be resolution of excess urination. If, however, there is a dramatic decrease in appetite or your dog stops drinking water, it could be an indication of a side effect requiring treatment.

What kind of results can I expect when my dog is on Vetoryl Capsules?

Although Vetoryl Capsules ARE NOT A CURE for hyperadrenocorticism, the product can control the clinical signs:

• Response varies from dog to dog.
• Improvement can be seen in most dogs within a few weeks.
• If Vetoryl Capsules are discontinued or not given as directed, excess cortisol production can resume and the signs of hyperadrenocorticism can return.

Which dogs should not take Vetoryl Capsules?

Your dog should not be given Vetoryl Capsules if he/she:

• Has kidney or liver disease.
• Takes certain medications. Vetoryl Capsules should be used with caution with several medication used to treat heart disease.
• Is pregnant.

Tell your veterinarian about all medicines you have given your dog in the past, and any medicines that you are planning to give with Vetoryl Capsules. This should include other medicines that you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your dog's medicines can be given together.

What should I know about giving Vetoryl Capsules to my dog?

• Vetoryl Capsules should be given according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Your veterinarian will tell you the number of Vetoryl Capsules that is right for your dog.
• Administer capsules with food.
• Keep out of reach of children. Not for human use.
• Do not open capsules and do not attempt to split or divide capsules.
• Wash hands after use.
• Do not handle the capsules if pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Studies in laboratory animals have produced birth defects and early pregnancy loss. In the event of accidental ingestion/overdose, seek medical advice immediately and take the labeled container with you.

What do I do in case my dog takes more than the prescribed amount of Vetoryl Capsules?

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog takes more than the prescribed amount of Vetoryl Capsules.

What else should I know about Vetoryl Capsules?

This sheet provides a summary of information about Vetoryl Capsules. If you have any questions or concerns about Vetoryl Capsules or hyperadrenocorticism, talk to your veterinarian.

As with all prescribed medicines, Vetoryl Capsules should only be given to the dog for which it was prescribed.

It is important to periodically discuss your dog's response to Vetoryl Capsules at regular checkups. Your veterinarian will determine if your dog is responding as expected and if your dog should continue receiving Vetoryl Capsules.