Cat Pain & Dexamethasone

Function

• Dexamethasone is an adrenocorticosteroid hormone drug and has many strong beneficial factors as well as the potential for many negative side effects. This medication is used in both small and large animals including cats, dogs and horses. Other formulation names for this drug include: Dexameth-A-Vet, Dex-A-Vet, Azium and Pet Derm.

  Although this medication is a steroid, it is a member of the catabolic steroid group, which means that it is used to break down resources that are typically stored in the body such as sugars, proteins and fats. These resources are broken down and used as fuel for the body when the body is stressed.

Uses

• Dexamethasone is used to treat shock, adrenal gland diseases, immune system diseases, allergic reactions, inflammatory diseases, neurological diseases, and may be used as part of a cancer treatment in cats. According to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, Dexamethasone is especially useful in aiding in joint pain and itchy skin. Drugs.com states that dexamethasone can also be used to treat problems in cats such as ruptured ligaments, sheaths, peri-articular ankylosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

  A 2009 study in the "Journal of the American Hospital Association" states that 14 cats were split up and given equal amounts of dexamethasone and prednisone. Dexamethasone proved to have greater effects than Prednisone.

Application

• Wedgewood Pharmacy states that Dexamethasone is given orally, by injection or topically. When applied topically, it may be mixed with other ingredients such as antifungals or antibiotics.

Dosage

• Dexamethasone is available only by prescription and should only be given to your cat under a veterinarian's supervision. The dosage of this medication varies and is dependent on what kind of illness it is being used to treat. For anti-inflammatory usage, the average dose is .1 to .3 mgs per pound, once, or twice weekly according to the Pet Place.

  Pill form comes in dosages of .25 mg, .75 mg, 1 mg, 1.5 mg, 2, 4 and 6 mg. Liquid form comes in .5 mg. The length of time for use of this medication also depends on the condition it is being used to treat and how the cat reacts to the medication. You should follow the veterinarian's directions, and use the medication for the full duration that the veterinarian prescribes.

Side Effects/Precautions

• Dexamethasone is generally safe, however side effects may show in some cats. The most common side effects associated with use of this medication are excessive thirst, appetite, panting, diarrhea and restlessness. This medication often causes mild elevation in liver enzymes. Stomach or intestinal ulcers may develop in some animals after use of dexamethasone. Hair loss, liver impairment, weakening muscles and changes in behavior may develop if this medication is used for a long period of time.

  Precautions include not giving dexamethasone to any cat that is allergic to the drug. This medication may interact with other medications such as insulin, phenobarbitol, some vaccines and furosemide. Dexamethasone should not be used in the treatment of infectious diseases, and if used for an extended period of time the animal should be weaned off of it cautiously.

  According to VeterinaryPartner.com, diabetic cats should use this medication only in a life-threatening situation. Pregnant cats should not use this medication as it can cause abortion.