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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Overview of Pseudoephedrine for Canines and Felines Pseudoephedrine HCL, commonly known by the brand names Sudafed® or Equiphed®, is a drug used in dogs to increase urethral tone abnormalities and can be use in cats to treat respiratory problems like bronchitis and nasal congestion. The therapeutic dose and toxic dose ranges are close making this drug an unpopular choice for many pets. Some suggest this drug should NOT be used in dogs. All pets receiving Pseudoephedrine should be carefully monitoring for signs of toxicity. Pseudoephedrine is a central nervous system stimulant classified as a sympathomimetic alkaloid agent and is similar to ephedrine. Pseudoephedrine causes the release of the sympathetic nervous system chemical norepinephrine. The involuntary nervous system is divided into the sympathetic (flight or fight response) and parasympathetic branches. In general, these two systems oppose each other. When stimulated, the sympathetic system increases heart rate, blood pressure and cardiac activity. It also dilates the bronchial tree and contracts certain smooth muscles. When compared to ephedrine, pseudoephedrine has only 25 percent the effect on blood pressure and 50 percent the effect on dilating airways. This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an extra-label drug. Pseudoephedrine is available without a prescription but should not be administered unless under the supervision and guidance of a veterinarian. Brand Names and Other Names for Pseudoephedrine Pseudopseudoephedrine is available in many different over-the-counter (OTC) products. It is also commonly available in combination with other drugs, such as decongestants and cold remedies. This drug is registered for use in humans only. Human formulations: Pseudoephedrine is supplied by numerous drug companies with a variety of trade names and various generic formulations. Common brand names include Sudafed and Equiphed. Veterinary formulations: None Uses of Pseudoephedrine for Dogs and Cats Pseudoephedrine is used in dogs to treat urethral sphincter tone. It can also be used for its bronchodilator activity, pseudoephedrine has been used in the treatment of respiratory conditions like bronchitis and nasal congestion in dogs; however, other drugs such as theophylline and terbutaline
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