
Zycortal for Dogs - 4ml
792378
Zycortal for Dogs is a veterinary prescription medicine used to treat Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) in dogs. This injectable suspension is designed to help maintain electrolyte balance and prevent the life-threatening symptoms associated with this condition. It contains desoxycortone pivalate (DOCP), a synthetic mineralocorticoid that supports adrenal function by regulating sodium, potassium, and water levels in the body.
Addison’s disease occurs when a dog’s adrenal glands do not produce enough corticosteroid hormones, which are essential for various physiological functions. Without proper treatment, affected dogs may experience lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, and in severe cases, collapse. Zycortal is used in combination with glucocorticoid therapy to provide long-term management of the condition, helping to stabilise a dog’s health and improve their quality of life.
How Zycortal Works
Zycortal contains desoxycortone pivalate (DOCP), which mimics the action of natural mineralocorticoid hormones that are normally produced by the adrenal glands. These hormones play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of electrolytes and fluids in the body. When a dog has Addison’s disease, their body fails to produce sufficient levels of aldosterone, a hormone responsible for regulating sodium and potassium levels. This imbalance can lead to serious complications, including dehydration, low blood pressure, and shock.
Once administered by a veterinarian as a subcutaneous injection, Zycortal helps to normalise sodium and potassium levels, reducing the risk of dangerous fluctuations. The active ingredient works over an extended period, typically requiring re-administration every 25 to 30 days. Since Zycortal only replaces mineralocorticoid function, dogs undergoing treatment will also need additional glucocorticoid therapy, such as prednisolone, to replace the deficient cortisol levels.
VETERINARY PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED.
Product Features
- Pack Size: - 4ml Vial
- Target Animal: - Dog (Canine)
- Related Condition: - Addisons Disease in Dogs (Hypoadrenocorticism)
- Pet Prescription Required?: - Yes
- Active Ingredient: - Desoxycortone Pivalate (DOCP)
- Product Name: - Zycortal for Dogs
More Information
Description
Zycortal for Dogs with Addisons - DOCP
Zycortal may only be supplied with a valid veterinary prescription issued by your vet. You should only purchase Zycortal if you have or are in the process of arranging such a prescription. See information bar for further details.
Understanding Addison’s Disease in Dogs
Addison’s disease, or hypoadrenocorticism, is a disorder caused by the inadequate production of adrenal hormones. The adrenal glands, located near the kidneys, produce corticosteroids, which help regulate metabolism, immune response, and stress adaptation. When these glands fail to function properly, a dog’s body cannot manage stress effectively, leading to serious health complications.
The condition is most commonly caused by an autoimmune reaction in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the adrenal glands. Other potential causes include infections, cancer, or the long-term use of certain medications that suppress adrenal function. In rare cases, Addison’s disease may develop as a result of a sudden withdrawal from long-term steroid treatment.
Symptoms of Addison’s disease can be vague and intermittent, making diagnosis challenging. Early signs often include lethargy, weakness, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhoea. As the disease progresses, symptoms may become more severe, leading to weight loss, dehydration, tremors, and episodes of collapse. In some cases, dogs experience an Addisonian crisis, a life-threatening event characterised by severe dehydration, dangerously low blood pressure, and shock. Immediate veterinary intervention is required in such situations to stabilise the dog and restore electrolyte balance.
Managing Addison’s Disease with Zycortal
Dogs diagnosed with Addison’s disease require lifelong treatment to replace the missing hormones and maintain stable physiological function. Zycortal is a key component of this management plan, ensuring that sodium and potassium levels remain balanced. Dogs undergoing treatment generally experience significant improvement in their condition, with symptoms becoming well controlled when medication is administered consistently.
Veterinarians will typically establish an individualised treatment plan, adjusting the dosage and frequency of Zycortal injections based on blood test results and clinical response. Owners should monitor their dog’s behaviour and overall well-being, reporting any changes in appetite, energy levels, or gastrointestinal symptoms to their veterinarian.
Alongside medication, dietary management and routine veterinary check-ups are important for maintaining a dog’s health. A well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction can contribute to overall well-being and help prevent complications. With appropriate treatment, most dogs with Addison’s disease can lead normal, active lives.
Legal Category
Zycortal is a POM-V (Pet Prescription Required)
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