Dogs, like their human companions, can suffer from a vast number of congenital defects, diseases, infections and various other health concerns. Recent advances in human medicines and techniques have benefited veterinary medication and both are helping improve the lives of pets. Dogs who are suffering from heart conditions, such as an irregular heartbeat can now lead longer, healthier lives. Understanding the purpose of the medication, potential side effects and dosage information can help any dog owner and veterinarian decide if procainamide is right for their dog.
Uses of Procainamide
Procainamide is a medication that is used to alter an irregular heartbeat, thus returning the heartbeat to a normal rhythm. It can also be used to slow a heartbeat that is too fast. Overall, procainamide is meant to return the heart function to a normal rhythm and allow the canine heart to function properly and work efficiently.
Potential Side Effects
As with any medication, side effects can vary from dog to dog. These side effects can also be varied due to dosage, the weight of the dog and even breed or sex (due to gender-specific hormones). Common side effects of procainamide include a loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, changes in behavior such as lethargy or listlessness, depression and so forth. In addition to these side effects, some dogs may also experience diarrhea, insomnia, rash, fever, low blood pressure and weakness.
Interactions between medications can cause a variety of side effects and in extreme cases, death can occur if the wrong medications are mixed. Dog owners who are considering putting their dog onto procainamide for heart issues should also talk to their veterinarian about other medications that the dog may currently be on. For example, centrine is a medication used to treat vomiting and diarrhea but when mixed with procainamide can cause or enhance side effects such as dry mouth, difficulty with urination, blurry vision and dry eyes.
Dosing Information
When administering any medication to a dog, the pet owner should follow exact instructions regarding the dosage amount and the frequency of administration to the dog. Dosage amounts will vary from dog to dog based on their weight and veterinarian recommendation. It is also possible that dosage amounts will need to be adjusted to help reduce side effects that may be caused by too much or too little of the medication.
It is recommended that dogs who are prescribed procainamide should be given the medication at approximately the same time every day. The medication should be dispersed approximately half an hour prior to meal time unless otherwise directed by the veterinarian.
Overall, for dogs who are suffering from serious heart concerns, the potential side effects may outweigh the benefits of taking procainamide. Procainamide is only available through veterinarians and veterinary prescriptions.
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