Vetmedin

Pimobendan (cardiac inotrope/vasodilator) for congestive heart failure in dogs; mitral valve disease and DCM. Inodilator cardiac drug (pimobendan). Mechanism: (1) Calcium sensitizer — binds troponin C → increases myofilament sensitivity to intracellular calcium → positive inotropy without increasing myocardial oxygen demand; (2) PDE3 inhibitor → increased cAMP → vasodilation (reduces preload and afterload) and mild positive inotropy. Oral chewable tablet. FDA-approved for dogs with CHF and pre-clinical DCM. Key information Pimobendan — positive inotrope/vasodilator for CHF in dogs. Store at room temperature. Administer 1 hour BEFORE feeding (empty stomach for absorption). Do not use in dogs with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or outflow obstruction. Once- or twice-daily dosing.

Oral chewable tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. (1 hr before feeding — absorption significantly improved on empty stomach). Administer twice daily at 12-hr intervals. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, on an empty stomach. If it is close to the next dose time, skip it. Vetmedin should be given consistently — contact your vet if you miss multiple doses.

GI: diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia (most common). Hypotension (vasodilation — monitor). Tachycardia (mild). Lethargy. Syncope (severe hypotension). Do not use in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (increases outflow obstruction). Thrombocytopenia (rare).

For animals CONTRAINDICATED in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM), aortic stenosis, or any condition where increased cardiac output is contraindicated. Cats: use for HCM is extra-label and controversial — cardiologist consultation recommended. Avoid in patients with significant hypotension or tachycardia. Drug interaction: calcium channel blockers or beta-blockers reduce efficacy. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Cardiac inodilator — keep away from children (hypotension). Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Store securely.

Contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately. Pimobendan overdose causes hypotension, tachycardia, and vomiting. Supportive care required.