Articles
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Desmopressin is a hormone used off-label to treat diabetes insipidus (not diabetes mellitus) and von Willebrand disease in cats, dogs, and horses. Desmopressin is usually provided in a nasal spray format, but the nasal spray is administered as drops in the eye. Your veterinarian may recommend an oral tablet or an injection given in the clinic.
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Desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP) (brand name Percorten-V, Zycortal) is a steroid hormone replacement therapy used to treat primary hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease) in dogs. Lower dosages can be used to help balance blood electrolyte levels. DOCP has also been used extra-label to treat hypoadrenocorticism in cats.
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Dexamethasone is given on and off label, by mouth or injection, to treat various inflammatory, autoimmune, and adrenal gland conditions. It can also be used off label as a diagnostic test. Common side effects include increased drinking, urination and/or appetite, dull/dry haircoat, weight gain, pot-bellied appearance, muscle weakness, panting, vomiting, or diarrhea.
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Dexamethasone ophthalmic is a topical steroid medication used to treat eye inflammation in cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, and other animals. Dexamethasone ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form that is given topically, directly into the eye.
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Dexamethasone otic is a topical steroid medication used to treat inflammation of the ears in pets, often with other medications such as antibiotics. It comes as a liquid solution used topically in the ear canal.
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Dexmedetomidine is a sedative and tranquilizer used in the treatment of fear and anxiety in dogs (Sileo) and as a sedative and pain medication in both dogs and cats (Dexdomitor). It is also used off label (extra label) as a pre-anesthetic or tranquilizer in exotic pets.
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Dextromethorphan is given by mouth and is used off label to treat compulsive behaviors and occasionally used to treat cough. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, sleepiness, drooling or anxiousness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it.
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Dextromethorphan + Guaifenesin is a combination medication used off-label to reduce cough in cats and dogs. It is also used to treat compulsive behavior in cats and dogs. This medication is given by mouth in the form of an oral tablet and may be compounded into other forms.
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Diazepam (brand names: Valium®, Diastat®, E Pam Tab®, Meva®l, Vivol®) is used as a muscle relaxant, anti-anxiety medication, appetite stimulant, and an anti-seizure medication. It is also used as a preanesthetic in hospital. It is used off label to treat anxiety, seizures, tense muscles, or decreased appetite. Give as directed by your veterinarian.
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Diazoxide is given by mouth and is used off label in cats, dogs, ferrets, and other small mammals to treat low blood sugar associated with insulin-producing tumors of the pancreas. Diazoxide is given by mouth in the form of a liquid suspension or compounded capsule.