Written by Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc on the Jan.16, 2024
Petdirect is dedicated to providing educational pet health content for pet parents. This article was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer common questions about your pet’s medication. Our focus is on delivering unbiased information to help you understand how medication works, its potential side effects, and FAQs for your reference. Always administer medication directly as prescribed by your vet. This article shouldn’t take the place of advice from your vet.
Cardisure® is a medication containing the active ingredient Pimobendan, commonly prescribed to treat dogs with heart disease. Dogs prescribed Cardisure have often been diagnosed with heart valve insufficiency (mitral valve and/or tricuspid valve insufficiency) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and this can lead to congestive heart failure.
Cardisure® operates through two primary mechanisms to aid in heart function. Vasodilation involves the relaxation of blood vessels, allowing for easier blood flow as the vessels widen. This can help reduce fluid accumulation in the lungs or body due to blood backup and lowers the heart's resistance, thereby improving overall blood flow. Cardisure® also works to enhance the heart muscle fibers' ability to contract effectively, promoting better blood movement from the heart to the body.
Your veterinarian will prescribe an appropriate dose based on your dog's weight, usually divided into two doses per day, 12 hours apart, morning and evening. It's crucial to follow your vet's instructions precisely, as the morning and evening doses may differ.
Overdose:
In case of an overdose, immediate veterinary attention is necessary. Symptoms of overdose may include rapid heart rates, blood pressure abnormalities, abnormal heart rhythms, and structural heart changes. For emergencies, immediately contact your Veterinarian or an after hours clinic. For more information, contact the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or phone 0800 869 738.
Cardisure is contraindicated in cases of hypertrophic cardiomyopathies or clinical conditions where an augmentation of cardiac output is not recommended for functional or anatomical reasons, such as aortic stenosis.
Cardisure is generally safe and is usually well-tolerated. Some dogs might experience increased heart rate, vomiting, diarrhoea, decreased appetite, or lethargy. If your dog shows any signs of illness, contact your vet promptly.
Store Cardisure® in a controlled environment, ideally at room temperature between 15°C to 25°C, and ensure the container is tightly closed to protect from moisture and light.
Dogs with heart disease require routine monitoring. It’s important to follow your vet’s advice. Routine monitoring can vary and may include blood pressure checks, blood tests, chest x-rays, electrocardiograms, and heart ultrasounds.
What Is It and How Does It Function?
Missed Dose Protocol: What Should You Do?
Treatment Duration: How Long Will Your Dog Need Cardisure?
Veterinary Check-ups: Are They Necessary?
We hope this article provides a clear understanding of Cardisure for your pet. Remember, always seek advice from your veterinarian for any health-related decisions for your pets. Always consult your veterinarian for guidance on dosage and potential side effects.