Vetmedin Product Information

Vetmedin Questions

What conditions does Vetmedin treat?

It is used to treat heart disease of various types in dog. Is is a vasodilator and has a positive inotropic effect on the heart muscle. This means the heart has to work less hard and is more efficient.

How does Vetmedin work?

It is a vasodilator and has a positive inotropic action on heart muscle.

How should I administer Vetmedin to my pet?
It should be given orally, by mouth according to your vet’s direction on the prescription label

What is the correct dosage of Vetmedin for my animal's weight and species?

The correct dose for your animal is as prescribed by your vet. Your vet will follow the data sheet for the medication prescribed and for some medications will adjust this taking into consideration your animal's medical history.

How long should I continue with Vetmedin for?

You should continue for the length of time your vet prescribed the medication for which may be for the remainder of your pet’s life if it is helping. Please read the label your vet has attached to the medication. If you suspect that your pet may be having an adverse reaction to a medication, please contact your vet for advice on continuing the medication.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Vetmedin?

If you miss a dose of medication, please contact your vet for advice on when to give the next dose.

Where can I buy Vetmedin?

You can purchase Vetmedin cheaper than from your Vet Practice from www.vets4u.uk. To contact vets4u.uk, call us on +44 116 218 4244 between 09:30am and 4:30pm Monday to Friday, chat to us directly or email us at mail@vets4u.uk

Does Vetmedin need a prescription?

Yes, as it is classified as a POM-V.

How can I buy Vetmedin from Vets4u?

You can buy Vetmedin via our website via a valid prescription by adding to the basket on our website www.vets4u.uk.

Manufacturer’s Link to Vetmedin

Boehringer Vetmedin Product Link

NOAH Compendium Datasheet Link to Vetmedin

Vetmedin Datasheet

What are the side-effects of Vetmedin?

Overdose can lead to vomiting, lethargy, wobbliness and low blood pressure. If this occurs the dose should be lowered but speak to your vet first.

In very rare cases haemorrhages have been noted on mucous membranes which disappeared when treatment was withdrawn.

Very rare is less than 1 animal in 10,000.

In rare cases transient diarrhoea, reduced appetite or lethargy has been noted. Rare is more than 1 but less than 10 animals per10,000.

Rarely vomiting and a rise in heart rate are noted when the usual dose is given, in which case the dose should be reduced.

How long does Vetmedin prolong life?

From between 170 days and 15 months depending on the heart condition. It also improves quality of life. 

Is Vetmedin a diuretic?

No.

Can Vetmedin and Furosemide be taken together? 

Yes, if your vet prescribes them both and your dog has heart failure.

Can a dog overdose on Vetmedin?

It could do if more than the prescribed dose has been given. Rarely vomiting and a rise in heart rate are noted when the usual dose is given, in which case the dose should be reduced. Speak to your vet if you suspect an overdose has been given. 

Does Vetmedin come in liquid form?

It comes in a chewable tablet and a capsule. 

Does Vetmedin have to be given on an empty stomach?

Yes, it should be given an hour before feeding. 

How long does it take for vetmedin to work?

It is absorbed quickly so starts to have an effect the day it is given. 

What is Vetmedin used for in dogs?

To extend life and quality of life in dogs with various types of heart disease.

Can I give Vetmedin after food?

No, it should be given an hour before feeding. 

Can Vetmedin be crushed?

It should not be crushed and added to food. It can be divided into smaller pieces if you have the tablet form but still given orally an hour before feeding. If you struggle to administer it please speak to your vet. 

Can Vetmedin be given 2 hours after food?

It is advised on the data sheet to give an hour before feeding.

Can Vetmedin cause diarrhoea in dogs?

Rarely, yes.

Can Vetmedin cause kidney failure in dogs?

Kidney failure is not an adverse reaction described in the datasheet.

Can Vetmedin cause seizures in dogs? 

This is not a reported adverse reaction in the datasheet.

Can Vetmedin make my dog worse?

Rarely vomiting and a rise in heart rate are noted when the usual dose is given, in which case the dose should be reduced. If you suspect your dog’s heart condition is worsening, please speak to your vet. 

Rarely mitral valve regurgitation has increased when treated long term. This can only be measured by repeating ultrasound checks.

Does Vetmedin make dogs thirsty?

This is not a reported adverse reaction in the datasheet.

What is in Vetmedin?
It is a prescription medication for dogs, containing Pimobendan, used to treat certain types of heart disease. 

Can Vetmedin and Enalapril be taken together? 

If your vet prescribes them both then yes.

Answers Compiled by our RCVS Registered Veterinary Surgeon.