Isoxsuprine

What is isoxsuprine?

Isoxsuprine is a vasodilator that relaxes blood vessel walls outside major organs. It has been used to help treat frostbite in birds and certain conditions in dogs. There are no isoxsuprine products that are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so it must be compounded in the United States.

It is used off label (extra label) in pets. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. 

In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet isoxsuprine?

• Isoxsuprine comes as a compounded liquid medication.
• Compounded liquid medication is given orally (by mouth).
• This medication can be given to your pet with or without food. If your pet vomits after getting it on an empty stomach, give it with food or a small treat. If vomiting continues, contact your veterinarian.
• Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears your pet is feeling better.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours. 

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Isoxsuprine may cause the following side effects:

• Vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Decreased appetite

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving isoxsuprine and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
• Fainting, collapse

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment and notify your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop after 24 hours.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE isoxsuprine in:

• Pets with known allergies to any components
• Pets that have given birth within one week
• Pets with bleeding

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions for this medication. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects. 
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian. 

How do I store isoxsuprine?

• Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.
• Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. Report any adverse effects to the FDA or Health Canada.