Vetmedin (Pimobendan) Main Uses
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): Indicated for the management of signs of mild, moderate, or severe congestive heart failure in dogs caused by atrioventricular valvular insufficiency (mitral and/or tricuspid valve regurgitation) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
Preclinical Mitral Valve Disease: Specifically used in dogs with Stage B2 myxomatous mitral valve disease (asymptomatic dogs with a loud murmur and evidence of heart enlargement) to significantly delay the onset of heart failure.
Preclinical Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Used to delay the onset of clinical signs in certain breeds with subclinical DCM.
 
Vetmedin (Pimobendan) Active Ingredients
Active Ingredient: Pimobendan.
Drug Class: Inodilator (a positive inotrope and balanced vasodilator).
Mechanism:
Calcium Sensitization: Increases the sensitivity of cardiac myofilaments to calcium, which strengthens the heart muscle's contraction force (inotropy) without increasing oxygen or energy consumption.
PDE III Inhibition: Inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase III, leading to the relaxation of blood vessels (vasodilation). This reduces both "preload" (the pressure the heart feels while filling) and "afterload" (the resistance the heart pumps against), effectively making it easier for the heart to circulate blood.
 
Vetmedin (Pimobendan) Dosage & Administration
Standard Dosage: The recommended total daily dose is 0.5 mg/kg (0.23 mg/lb) of body weight.
Frequency: The total daily dose must be divided into two administrations given approximately 12 hours apart (morning and evening).
Administration Timing: Should be given on an empty stomach, ideally at least one hour before feeding, as food significantly reduces the drug's absorption and effectiveness.
Adjustments: Dosage is based on weight and is typically rounded to the nearest half-tablet increment using 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg capsules.
Duration: In most cases, once a pet starts Vetmedin for heart disease, it is required as a lifelong medication.
 
Vetmedin (Pimobendan) Side Effects & Safety
Common Side Effects: Poor appetite, lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, and weakness. Some dogs may show a slight increase in heart rate.
Safety Warnings:
Contraindications: Do not use in pets with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or anatomical conditions where increased cardiac output is not possible (e.g., aortic stenosis).
Monitoring: Pets should be monitored for cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) during therapy.
Precautions: Use with caution in pets with severe liver impairment, as the drug is primarily metabolized by the liver.
Breeding/Pregnancy: Safe use has not been established in dogs younger than 6 months, breeding dogs, or pregnant/lactating bitches.
 
Vetmedin (Pimobendan) Manufacturer Information
Manufacturer: Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Canada Inc.
Official Website: https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/ca/
Brand Introduction: Boehringer Ingelheim is a global leader in veterinary cardiology. Vetmedin is one of the most significant advancements in canine heart health in recent decades.