What is perna?
Perna (extract brand names: Lyprinol® and Antinol®) is a supplement made from the green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) and is used as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory for conditions like arthritis in cats, dogs, and horses. It has also been used in humans to supplement allergic asthma treatment. Perna contains substances such as chondroitin, fatty acids, and micronutrients.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review non-drug health products (e.g., herbals, nutraceuticals, shampoos, and other supplements) for safety or effectiveness before they are sold to the public. Manufacturers of non-drug health products must ensure their products are safe and labeled accurately.
The FDA requires that these non-pharmaceuticals contain a disclaimer that says, “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” Health Canada licenses “veterinary health products” after reviewing safety, efficacy, and manufacturing information provided by the manufacturer. These products are not tested by Health Canada.
Your veterinarian is the best source of information about the safety of non-drug health products in pets. Just because a product is natural does not mean it is safe. All medicines and medicinal plants are potentially toxic if used inappropriately or given at high doses. Supplements can also have side effects, like pharmaceuticals. Few supplements and herbs have been subjected to rigorous scientific trials to determine their efficacy.
Although the information in this handout may be helpful, it also may be incomplete and may not represent the full range of effects the supplement could have on your pet.
How is perna given?
- Perna comes in capsule, powder, or chewable tablet forms.
- All forms are given orally (by mouth).
- Give with food.
- Follow your veterinarian’s instructions on administering this supplement and give for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if your pet is feeling better.
What if I miss giving my pet the supplement?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects?
Perna may cause the following side effects:
- Nausea,
- Diarrhea,
- Gas
- Abdominal discomfort
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving perna and contact your veterinarian immediately:
- An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
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.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This supplement can take up to several weeks for full effects to be seen and should stop working within a few days, though effects may last longer in pets with liver and/or kidney disease.
Are there any risk factors for this supplement?
DO NOT USE perna in:
- Pets that are allergic to shellfish or any component of the supplement
- Pets that are pregnant or nursing
USE WITH CAUTION in:
- Pets with liver and/or kidney disease
- Pets that are in heart failure
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
There are no drug interactions documented at this time, but there is limited information available. Vitamins, herbal therapies, and supplements have the potential to interact with each other, as well as with prescription and over the counter medications. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including all vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
Is any monitoring needed with this supplement?
- Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the supplement is working and not causing side effects.
- At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue the supplement, and contact your veterinarian.
How do I store perna?
- Store the supplement according to the manufacturer’s directions.
- Protect from light, moisture, and heat.
- Keep the container 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 supplement, 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.
