CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Liz Bode,
Medication: Pimobendan
Medication: Pimobendan
Your cat has been prescribed the active ingredient pimobendan to treat congestive heart failure. This product is not licensed in cats.
Key points:
• Vasodilator and positive inotrope.
Safe use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals has not been evaluated.
• Dosage: twice a day, 1 hour before food.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your vet or pharmacist.Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your vet.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Pimobendan (pi-moben-dan).
Brand name
- Cardisure (flavoured tablets) (Europe & UK).
- Fortekor-Plus (with benazpril) (Europe & UK).
- Pimocard (flavoured tablets) (Europe & UK).
- Vetmedin (injectable and chewable tablets) (Europe & UK, US).
Class of drug
- Vasodilator and positive inotrope.
Storage
- Do not store above 25°C/77°F.
- Store in a dry place.
Why has my cat been prescribed pimobendan?
Your vet has prescribed pimobendan for the management of congestive heart failure (CHF). The drug works by opening up the blood vessels to and from the heart (vasodilation), making it easier for blood to be pumped around the body. It also strengthens your cat's heartbeat (positive inotrope).
How is the medication given?
Pimobendan is given orally, as tablets, approximately 1 hour before food. Chewable and flavoured tablets are available. The medication is best given twice a day (every 12 hours), ideally in the morning and evening.
Pimobendan is given alongside other medications such as furosemide (a diuretic), digoxin or an ACE inhibitor (such as enalapril or benazepril).
Pimobendan may also be given initially as an injection by your vet or by oral liquid.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Side-effects are rare. Vomiting and moderate tachycardia (increased heart rate) may be seen in some cases but can be avoided by reducing the dose.
The effects of pimobendan are increased with beta-blockers and calcium-channel blockers (especially verapamil).
Pimobendan should not be used for the treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Your cat will likely be on pimobendan for the rest of their life if responding well to treatment.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused pimobendan safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not double up a dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended amount in any 24-hour period.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your vet for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Pimobendan should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for:
- Do not give to other pets in the household.
- Do not give to pregnant or lactating cats.
- If accidentally given to other pets, contact your vet for advice.
If accidentally eaten by a human, speak to your primary care doctor or poison control centre.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on pimobendan?
There are no specific monitoring needs, but your vet will monitor that the medication is working.
Further information
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your cat’s medication.