Do you have a dog suffering from Cushing’s Disease? There is a good chance that you are using or going to use trilostane to treat. Trilostane for dogs is a great medication option for dog owners dealing with the symptoms of Cushing’s Disease in their canine companions. In this blog post, we will explore the potential benefits and side effects of trilostane for dogs as well as some tips for using it.

Understanding Trilostane

Trilostane is used for the management of Cushing’s Disease or hyperadrenocorticism in dogs. The commercially available product for dogs is called Vetoryl ® and comes in 5mg, 10mg, 30mg, 60mg, and 120mg strengths.

Cushing's Disease in dogs is a disease of the adrenal glands which produce too much of the hormone cortisol. Excessive cortisol levels are the cause of typical symptoms such as increased thirst and urination, excessive appetite, weight gain, and lethargy.

Trilostane works by inhibiting an enzyme involved in the production of cortisol within the adrenal glands, effectively reducing the abnormal cortisol levels in the body.

Trilostane is administered orally, making it an easy addition to your dog's daily routine. Additionally, trilostane dosage can be adjusted based on your dog's specific needs and the severity of the disease, providing a custom approach to treatment. Your veterinarian will advise you of any dose changes that would be required.

It is important to remember, though, that regular monitoring of your dog's condition is vital to ensure the drug's effectiveness and minimize potential side effects.

Benefits of Trilostane for Dogs

Trilostane offers several benefits for dogs suffering from Cushing's disease. Its primary benefit lies in its ability to effectively manage the overproduction of cortisol, thereby reducing the symptoms associated with this condition.

These include excessive thirst and urination, increased appetite, skin conditions, and lethargy. By treating these symptoms, trilostane improves the overall quality of life for your dog, allowing them to lead a healthier and happier lifestyle.

Another one of the main benefits of trilostane for dogs is that its effects are reversible. Historically, veterinarians used a medication called lysodren to reduce the amount of cortisol produced by the adrenal glands. The mechanism of action is considered toxic to the adrenal glands and discontinuing the medication would not result in the rebound of cortisol levels.

Therefore, if there is a concern about a high dose of trilostane, discontinuing or reducing the dose will cause the cortisol levels to rebound, reducing the adverse effects of a high dose.

It's important to note that while trilostane provides significant benefits, it should always be administered under the guidance of your veterinarian. Regular check-ups and blood tests will ensure that your dog responds well to the treatment and that side effects are managed. With the right care, trilostane for dogs can make a significant difference in the life of a dog suffering from Cushing's Disease.

Potential Side Effects of Trilostane

Like all medications, trilostane for dogs may come with potential side effects. While these are typically mild and manageable, it's crucial to be aware of them so you can monitor your dog effectively and seek veterinary assistance if required.

The most common side effects of trilostane for dogs include a decrease in appetite, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, trilostane can lead to more serious complications like adrenal insufficiency or iatrogenic Addison's Disease. This condition, though uncommon, can cause severe lethargy, lack of appetite, vomiting, and collapse.

It's important to remember that these side effects are not definite occurrences but possibilities that you should be prepared for. If you notice any changes in your dog's behavior or physical condition after starting trilostane treatment, reach out to your veterinarian immediately.

Regular follow-ups with your veterinarian will help ensure that the dosage is correct and that your dog is responding well to the medication. Blood tests such as the ACTH stimulation test may be performed periodically to monitor the effect of the drug on the adrenal glands.

How to Administer Trilostane

Administering trilostane to your dog is a straightforward process, but it does require care and attention. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure you're doing it correctly.

  • Follow your Veterinarian's Instructions: The dosage and frequency of trilostane will be determined by your veterinarian based on your dog's condition. Always follow these instructions precisely.
  • Administer with Food: Trilostane should be given with a meal. This is because food increases the absorption of the medication in the body.
  • Consistency is Key: Try to give the medication at the same time each day. Consistency is important in maintaining beneficial levels of the drug in your dog's system.
  • Handle with Care: Do not split or crush the trilostane tablets. Handle them with dry hands and avoid inhaling the dust from the tablets.
  • Twice Daily Dosing May Be Required: While some dogs do very well with once-daily dosing, giving trilostane twice daily seems to provide better control of Cushing's Disease. Do not increase your dog's dose without consulting your veterinarian first.
  • Missed Dose Instructions: If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

While Vetoryl® comes in a convenient capsule your veterinarian can compound the medication into a different form if required. Compounded trilostane can reduce efficacy and therefore, most veterinarians will recommend Vetoryl® to start.

Remember, regular check-ups with your veterinarian are essential when your dog is on trilostane. These allow your vet to monitor the progress and adjust the dosage if necessary. If you notice any side effects or changes in your dog's behavior, contact your vet immediately.

FAQs About Trilostane for Dogs

When should trilostane not be used in dogs?

Trilostane should not be used in dogs with liver or kidney disease. It's also not safe for pregnant dogs. Be careful when using this on dogs with high blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia).

How fast does trilostane work in dogs?

Trilostane typically leads to noticeable improvements within weeks, reducing symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, and increased appetite, and even boosting activity levels.

Does trilostane need to be given with food?

Giving trilostane with food helps your dog's body absorb it better. So, always make sure to give this medication to your dog during mealtime.

When should trilostane be started twice daily, as opposed to once daily?

If there are concurrent diseases such as diabetes mellitus and/or calcinosis cutis, we would advise that trilostane be started at twice daily dosing.

What is the typical dose of trilostane for dogs?

If using once daily, we typically would start with 2 mg/kg of body weight in the morning with food. If using trilostane twice daily, the dose we use is 0.5-1 mg/kg of body weight.
These are guidelines so please consult with your veterinarian for accurate dosing for your particular dog

In summary, trilostane for dogs is a highly effective treatment for Cushing's Disease. It works by inhibiting cortisol production from the adrenal glands, resulting in a better quality of life for your dog.

Although the medication may induce mild side effects such as decreased appetite, vomiting, and lethargy, these are generally manageable and self-limiting. Severe complications are uncommon, and with diligent monitoring and routine examinations, any concerns can be promptly addressed. When administering trilostane, it is important to be cautious and follow your veterinarian's guidance. Always give the medication with food to enhance absorption, and never change the dosage without proper supervision.

Despite the need for diligence and frequent veterinary visits, the benefits of trilostane far outweigh these considerations. However, it's important to remember that each dog is unique, so consulting with your veterinarian for personalized advice and treatment plans is crucial.

We hope this article was helpful and please contact your veterinarian if you have any further questions.