Pancreatitis is a painful condition some dogs experience when the pancreatic enzymes attack the body. When a dog has this condition, the enzymes attempt to break down the dog's organs rather than the food. Treatments for dogs span from pain medication and antibiotic treatment to enzyme therapy.
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Pain management
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Veterinarians typically prescribe strong painkillers to be administered to the dog as needed. Common pain relievers include tramadol, morphine, Demerol (meperidine), Torbugesic or Torbutrol (both types of butorphanol) or fentanyl.
Anesthesia
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In cases of severe pain in which a dog receives emergency treatment in a facility, intra-abdominal lidocaine is administered to relieve pain immediately.
Fluid Therapy
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Dogs often need to avoid food or water so the pancreas can "rest" while ill. Potassium chloride helps replenish the electrolytes lost due to diarrhea or vomiting.
Antibiotics
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To treat bacterial infections that might occur while a dog is recovering, antibiotics are often prescribed and must be administered completely to the ailing canine. Common antibiotics used are enrofloxacin, cephalosporin or amoxicillin.
Antiemetics
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A veterinarian may prescribe a medication to keep the dog from vomiting either due to the condition itself or other medications prescribed. Common antiemetics used include metoclopramide, Thorazine (chlorpromazine) and Zantac (ranitidine).
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