Skip to main content

Library

Medications & Supplements

  • Marbofloxacin is given by mouth and is used on and off label to treat certain bacterial infections including leishmaniasis, tuberculosis, and hemoplasmosis. Common side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of appetite.

  • Methylprednisolone is given by mouth or injection and is used on and off label in dogs, cats, and horses to treat inflammatory, immune-mediated, and hormonal conditions. Common side effects include increased drinking, urination, and appetite, dull/dry haircoat, and/or weight gain.

  • Phenoxybenzamine is used off label in dogs and cats to treat urination difficulty related to sphincter tone, high blood pressure related to pheochromocytoma, and in horses to treat laminitis. Give phenoxybenzamine as directed by your veterinarian.

  • Mexiletine is given by mouth and is used off label to treat abnormal heart rhythms and muscle disorders in dogs. Common side effects include stomach upset such as vomiting, trembling, or dizziness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it.

  • Colchicine is given by mouth and is used off label in dogs and birds, primarily to treat amyloidosis and Shar-Pei fever. Its use in veterinary medicine is largely experimental and its effectiveness has not been well documented. Give as directed by your veterinarian.

  • Theophylline is used off label in dogs and cats to treat cough caused by bronchoconstriction. It is given by mouth in the form of a tablet or liquid, or in hospital as an injection. The most common side effects include stomach upset and excitement.

  • Cyproheptadine is given by mouth and is used off label in cats, dogs, and horses to treat allergic skin conditions, certain toxicities, and to stimulate appetite. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include sleepiness, increased appetite, and dry mouth.

  • Codeine is given by mouth or injection and is used off label in cats and dogs to treat mild to moderate pain, cough, and occasionally diarrhea. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include sleepiness and constipation.

  • Cimetidine is given by mouth and is used off label in cats, dogs, small mammals and horses to treat various gastrointestinal conditions related to acid production, such as ulcers and reflux. Side effects are uncommon and have not been documented in animals. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other histamine2 blockers.

  • Clonazepam is given by mouth and is used off label to treat seizures and certain behavioral disorders in dogs and cats. Common side effects include sleepiness, incoordination, drooling, excitement, or increased appetite.