Educational Articles
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Desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP) (brand name Percorten-V®, Zycortal®) is a steroid hormone replacement therapy used to treat primary hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease) in dogs. Extra-label (off-label) lower dosages of DOCP (i.e., lower dose, longer dosing interval, or both) can be used to control the balance of blood electrolyte levels. DOCP has also been used extra-label to treat hypoadrenocorticism in cats.
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Dexamethasone ophthalmic is a topical steroid medication used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats, dogs, rabbits, avian species, and other animals. Dexamethasone ophthalmic may be used alone or in combination with an antimicrobial. Dexamethasone ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form. Avoid use in animals with corneal ulcerations or corneal infections.
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Dexamethasone Otic is a steroid medication used in pets to treat topical inflammation of the ears, often with other medications such as antibiotics. It comes as a liquid solution that is prescribed for topical use within a pet’s ear canal. There are no veterinary brands of dexamethasone otic.
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Dexmedetomidine is a sedative/tranquilizer used primarily in cats and dogs as a pre-medication injection for anesthesia or for chemical restraint. It is also used orally in dogs for short-term anxiety management. The most common side effect is a low heart rate. Dexmedetomidine should not be used in patients with severe heart liver or kidney disease. It should be used cautiously in young, old, or weak animals. Consult your veterinary office immediately if you suspect a negative reaction or overdose.
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Dextromethorphan + Guaifenesin is given by mouth as a tablet and is used off label to reduce cough in dogs and cats or to treat compulsive behavior. Side effects are uncommon, but serious adverse reactions associated with this drug may occur without warning. Contact your veterinarian if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
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Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency that occurs when there is not enough insulin in the body to control blood sugar (glucose) levels. It is important for your veterinarian to perform appropriate tests in order to diagnose this disease as similar signs can occur with other medical conditions. Treatment involves hospitalization with IV fluids, short acting insulin and electrolyte replacement. The most important step in prevention is ensuring proper insulin dosing is being administered.
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Diazoxide is given by mouth and is used off label to treat low blood sugar associated with insulin-producing tumors of the pancreas. Give as directed by your veterinarian. Common side effects include drooling, lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or thiazide diuretics, or in pets with low blood sugar due to anything other than a tumor. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Diclofenac ophthalmic is a topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication used to treat inflammatory eye conditions in cats, dogs, rabbits, avian species, and other animals. Diclofenac ophthalmic comes in liquid drop form.
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Dinotefuran/permethrin/pyriproxyfen (brand name Vectra 3D®) is a topical (spot-on) antiparasitic drug that is applied directly to the skin. It is used to repel and kill fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, sand flies, and biting/chewing lice in dogs and puppies that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 2.3 kg (5 lb). NEVER use in cats and avoid using in households with cats, if possible. Permethrin is poisonous to cats and any exposure may be fatal.
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Dinotefuran/pyriproxyfen (brand name Vectra) is a topical (spot-on) antiparasitic drug used to repel and kill fleas in dogs and puppies that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 1.14 kg (2.5 lbs) and in cats and kittens that are at least 8 weeks of age and weigh at least 0.9 kg (2 lbs). Do not confuse this medication with Vectra 3D®, a similar product labeled for use in dogs only.