Vetmedin (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets for Dogs are a prescription medication used to manage congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs, specifically due to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) or degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD). These tablets contain pimobendan, which acts as a positive inotrope and vasodilator, helping the heart pump more efficiently and reducing the workload on the heart.

Vetmedin (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets are a prescription medication used to manage the symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs. These chewable tablets contain pimobendan, which is a positive inotrope and vasodilator that helps improve the heart's ability to pump blood and reduce the workload on the heart.

Key Features:

• Contains pimobendan: A positive inotrope and vasodilator that improves heart function.
• Manages congestive heart failure: Used to manage symptoms of CHF in dogs.
• Chewable tablets: Easy to administer orally, with or without food.
• Available in different strengths: Suitable for dogs of different sizes.
• Prescription medication: Requires a prescription from a veterinarian.
• Part of comprehensive treatment: Typically used with other medications to manage CHF in dogs.

How It Works:

Vetmedin (pimobendan) works by increasing the strength of the heart muscle contractions and by dilating blood vessels. This dual action helps improve the heart's ability to pump blood, which is particularly beneficial in dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF).

1. Positive Inotropy: Vetmedin enhances the contractility of the heart muscle, allowing it to pump blood more effectively. This helps improve the overall function of the heart, which is crucial in managing CHF.
2. Vasodilation: By dilating blood vessels, Vetmedin reduces the resistance against which the heart must pump, thereby reducing the workload on the heart. This helps improve blood flow and reduces the pressure in the heart chambers, further aiding in the management of CHF.

By improving the heart's function and reducing its workload, Vetmedin helps alleviate the symptoms of CHF and improves the quality of life for dogs with this condition.

Indications:

Vetmedin is indicated for the management of the signs of mild, moderate, or severe congestive heart failure in dogs due to atrioventricular valvular insufficiency (AVVI) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Specifications:

• Brand: Vetmedin
• Active Ingredient: Pimobendan
• Type: Chewable Tablets
• Indicated For: Management of congestive heart failure in dogs
• Dosage Form: Chewable tablet
• Strength: Various strengths available

NDC 0010-4480-01 (1.25 mg / 50 tablets)

Active Ingredient:

Pimobendan

Vetmedin (Pimobendan) Tablets for Dogs: Improve Heart Function

View Vetmedin Product Label (PDF)

Administer this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you have any questions about these instructions, please ask your veterinarian or pharmacist.

Dosage and Administration:

Vetmedin tablets should be given orally at a total daily dose of 0.23 mg per pound (0.5 mg/kg) of your dog's body weight, using a suitable combination of whole or half tablets. The total daily dose is typically divided into two portions, given approximately 12 hours apart (morning and evening). The tablets are scored for easy splitting to achieve the calculated dosage to the nearest half tablet increment.

Quick Tips:

• Vetmedin is a prescription medication that helps the heart pump blood more effectively in dogs.
• It is used in the management of mild, moderate, or severe congestive heart failure (CHF) due to atrioventricular valvular insufficiency (AVVI) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Dosage Guidelines:

The standard dosage for dogs over 6 months of age is 0.23 mg per pound of body weight, divided into two administrations given approximately 12 hours apart. The administered portion should be adjusted to the nearest half tablet.

Storage Instructions:

Store Vetmedin tablets at room temperature between 20° - 25°C (68° - 77°F), with brief temperature excursions permitted between 15° and 30°C (59° and 86°F). Protect from moisture and light.

Palatability Information:

A laboratory study involving adult Beagle dogs showed that Vetmedin tablets are generally palatable, with a high percentage of dogs voluntarily consuming the offered doses.

Contraindications:

Do not administer Vetmedin to dogs with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis, or any other condition where increased cardiac output would be detrimental.

Warnings:

For use in dogs with diagnosed heart failure only. Exceeding the recommended dosage can lead to adverse cardiac effects.

Human Warnings:

Not for human use. Keep out of reach of children. If accidentally ingested, seek immediate medical attention.

Possible Side Effects:

Discontinue Vetmedin and seek immediate veterinary care if your dog experiences any serious side effects, including allergic reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling, hives), sudden diarrhea or vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, or coma.

Contact your veterinarian if your dog develops poor appetite, drowsiness, diarrhea, labored breathing, weakness, incoordination, fainting, fluid accumulation, or cough. Other side effects may occur; consult your veterinarian if you notice anything unusual.