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Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate (DOCP)
(Percorten-V)
Common
Drug Name:
Desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP)
Common
Brand Names
Percorten-V
No generic products are available.
Storage:
Store at
room temperature in a tight, light resistant, childproof container. Protect from
freezing. Do not mix with any other injectable medication.
Uses:
DOCP is a
mineralocorticoid used to treat Addison’s disease (adrenocortical insufficiency)
in dogs and cats.
Dose and
Administration:
Always
follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have
difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. Dosage varies per
patient and is adjusted based upon blood electrolyte (e.g., sodium and
potassium) levels. DOCP is an injectable medication. Shake the vial vigorously
before each use, and follow your veterinarian’s directions on how to give the
injection. Injections are usually given every 21-30 days. Treatment is needed
for life. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost
time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular
schedule. Do not give 2 doses at once. This medication should only be given to
the pet for whom it was prescribed.
Possible
Side Effects:
May see
irritation at injection site. If given at too low of a dose, may see signs of
Addison’s disease (weakness, depression, lack of appetite, vomiting, and
diarrhea). If given at too high of a dose may see increased thirst and
urination, and edema (swelling, fluid accumulation in the limbs). If you observe
any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately. If your
pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial
swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock,
seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs,
contact your veterinarian immediately.
Precautions:
Not for
use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it or drugs similar to it. Do not
use in pregnant or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young). Do
not use in patients with congestive heart failure, kidney disease, or edema
(swelling). Do
NOT
give DOCP
intravenously (IV, into the vein). Consult with your veterinarian regarding the
physical examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during
treatment with DOCP.
Drug,
Food, and Test Interactions:
Consult
your veterinarian before using vitamins and supplements, diuretics, insulin,
digitalis, amphotericin B or potassium-depleting diuretics like Furosemide (Lasix,
Salix), since interactions may occur.
Signs of
Toxicity/Overdose:
May see
an increase in drinking and urinating, changes in heart rate or rhythm due to
abnormal blood levels of electrolytes, or edema. Heart enlargement is possible
with longterm overdosing. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose,
or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian
immediately.
Keep this
and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.
** This information may not cover all possible uses,
directions, side effects, precautions, allergic reactions, drug interactions, or
withdrawal times. Always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice
concerning the treatment of your pet.
If you have questions about this
medication, please call our Pharmacy at (877) 815-6337 for a consultation
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