Side Effects of Medication for Cushing's Disease

Hyperadrenocorticism, or Cushing's disease, is a disorder that effects canines by increasing hormonal excess from the animal's adrenal glands. Characterized by increased drinking, eating, and urination, swollen abdomen, hair loss and muscle spasms, Cushing's disease must be treated for the dog's comfort. Prior to medicating your dog, you should be aware of the side effects of the medication.

  1. Hepatoxicity

    • Hepatoxicity, or liver damage, has been traced to the use of Ketoconazole, a medicine used for treating Cushing's disease. Because of intense liver damage, some rare cases have lead to fatalities.

    Anaphylaxis

    • Anaphylaxis has been shown to happen in some cases upon administering Ketoconazole. This is an intense and sometimes deadly allergic reaction, characterized by abdominal pain and vomiting.

    Lethargy and Weakness

    • Lysodren, a tablet used for treating Cushing's disease, can cause lethargy and weakness. In this state of lethargy, vomiting may occur, which can be worrisome, as your dog could choke on the vomit, especially if he is too weak to readjust his position.

    Diarrhea

    • In taking the Cushing's disease medication Anipryl, most often, dogs had diarrhea as a side effect. Though the diarrhea can be mild to moderate when it occurs, it is important to tell your veterinarian if your dog experiences this side effect.