Vetoryl is prescribed for dogs that are diagnosed with Cushings syndrome (pituitary-dependent and adrenal dependent hyperandrenocoticsim.

What is Cushing’s syndrome or Cushing Disease?

Both pets and humans can suffer Cushing Syndrome, or hypercortisolism.  It happens more often in middle-aged and older dogs, and there are some breeds of dogs that are more likely to develop Cushing disease, such as poodles, dachshunds and smaller terrier breeds.

 

Cushing’s syndrome means that the body has abnormally high levels of the hormone cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal glands.  A hormone called ACTH controls the production and release of cortisol from the adrenal glands. ACTH itself is produced by the pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain. Cortisol is a natural steroid produced by the body, and a normal amount helps the body adapt, in times of stress.  It regulates proper body weight, skin condition and tissue structure.  However, too much cortisol leaves the immune system weakened, and can lead to other diseases and infections.

 

Sometimes this over-production of cortisol is pituitary-dependent (about 80 percent of Cushing’s disease is caused by a tumour on the pituitary gland that overstimulates the production of cortisol), or it may be adrenal-dependent (caused by a tumour in an adrenal gland).   Your vet will do tests to diagnose Cushings, and to determine what is causing it.

 

Left untreated, hypercortisolism not only lessens your dog’s quality of life, but increases your dog’s risk of developing serious diseases like diabetes, blood clots, kidney infection and pancreatitis.

There are treatments to help your dog with Cushing’s syndrome!

Most cases of Cushings are treated with medications, rather than surgery, and it is normally a lifelong condition, once your pet is diagnosed.  However, it can be managed and your dog can live a good life with well-managed Cushing’s syndrome.  You’ll be pleased to know that veterinary medicine has made big progress, and it is possible for your dog to enjoy many years with a good quality of life, after being diagnosed with Cushing’s disease. 

What is Vetoryl?

Vetoryl is the only licensed Cushing’s treatment for use in dogs, and contains the active ingredient trilostane.  This drug rapidly reduces the production of cortisol by the adrenal glands. Vetoryl treats both pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent Cushing’s in dogs.  

What can I expect when my dog starts on Vetoryl?

  • Vetoryl starts working in the body in a matter of hours.
  • Some symptoms of Cushings Disease can disappear quickly, once treatment commences, and other symptoms can take a few weeks before the full effect of Vetoryl is seen, but there should be gradual improvements after the first few doses. 
  • Many dogs with Cushings disease have a ravenous appetite and large water intake as symptoms.  You can expect to see a decrease to normal appetite and water intake within a couple of weeks of starting on Vetoryl
  • Often, dogs with Cushings lose hair - this can take a few months to return, after treatment has started.
  • After two or three weeks, your vet will probably assess your pet’s response to the drug and its dosage.  This may involve monitoring blood tests.

 

How to give Vetoryl to my dog?

Vetoryl comes in capsule form, and is given either once or twice per day.  If possible, you should give the dose to your pet at approximately the same time each day.  Most vets recommend that Vetoryl is given with food, to help its absorption.

What if I give too much Vetoryl? What if I miss a dose of Vetoryl or give the wrong dose of Vetoryl?
Administration of drug issues

Whilst it is important that you give your pet the correct dose at the correct time, if you miss giving a dose of Vetoryl, don’t worry - just give the normal dose next time.  Don’t give a higher dose to “make up” a missed dose.  

If your animal has taken too much Vetoryl, or you suspect an overdose, call your vet. 

 

Storage of Vetoryl

The manufacturer of Vetoryl recommends that it be stored at room temperature (below 30 degrees).

 

Pregnant women, or women intending to fall pregnant should avoid contact with Vetoryl- wear gloves or have someone else dose the dog!

 

Who should NOT take Vetoryl?

  • Vets are likely to be cautious in prescribing Vetoryl to dogs that have kidney or liver problems.  
  • It should NOT be given to pregnant or nursing dogs.
  • There are many other drugs that will not work as well, if your pet is also taking Vetoryl.  Also, there are drugs that cannot be taken with Vetoryl.  For this reason, please make sure that you tell your vet about all other medications that your pet is taking, including vitamins, supplements and herbal therapies.  

Can I buy Vetoryl online?

Vetoryl is a prescription medicine, and you can buy it online from PetScripts once you have a script (prescription) from your vet.  Please ensure that you have read the How to Order page before ordering this item.

Disclaimer

This information is not intended nor is it implied to be a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice or any information contained on or in any product packaging or labels. Always seek the advice of your Veterinarian, Pharmacist, or qualified health provider when starting any new medical treatment, continuing with medical treatment or with any questions you may have regarding your animal's medical condition. Professional advice is required for each particular illness, disease, infection, injury or other medical condition and for dosages of the pharmaceutical product supplied via this website. You take full and total responsibility for what you do with this information and any resulting outcomes from your actions.

 

NOTHING CONTAINED IN THE SERVICE IS INTENDED TO BE OR SHOULD BE TAKEN FOR MEDICAL OR VETERINARY DIAGNOSIS OR TREATMENT.

 

IF YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY OR NEED IMMEDIATE MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR YOUR PET, PLEASE CONSULT AN ANIMAL HOSPITAL OR EMERGENCY VETERINARY FACILITY.