Vetmedin (Pimobendan) for Dogs: Uses, Forms & What Pet Parents Should Know
Manisha Parmar 7 min read
Vetmedin is the brand name of pimobendan, a prescription heart medicine for dogs. It is used to manage the signs of congestive heart failure caused by myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and it is available as chewable tablets or an oral solution.
Key Takeaways
What Is Vetmedin for Dogs?
- Vetmedin is the brand name of a medicine called pimobendan.
- It is a prescription heart medication made for dogs.
- It is one of the most commonly used heart medications for dogs.
- It can be given only with a prescription from a veterinarian.
- It helps the heart pump more strongly and relaxes the blood vessels so blood can move more easily.
What Is Pimobendan Used For in Dogs?
Pimobendan is used to manage congestive heart failure in dogs. Congestive heart failure means the heart can’t pump blood well enough, and fluid collects in the lungs or belly.
Vetmedin manages the signs of mild, moderate, or severe congestive heart failure caused by clinical myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
- MMVD (myxomatous mitral valve disease): a leaky heart valve. It is seen most often in smaller breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Yorkshire Terriers, and Dachshunds.
- DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy): a weak and enlarged heart muscle. It is seen more often in larger breeds.
- The manufacturer states that about 10% of dogs will be diagnosed with heart disease in their lifetime.
About Vetmedin-CA1:
- Vetmedin-CA1 is conditionally approved by the FDA for dogs with preclinical Stage B2 MMVD, meaning a moderate or loud heart murmur and an enlarged heart, but no heart failure yet.
- Your veterinarian will decide whether this product is suitable for your dog.
How Does Vetmedin Work?
Pimobendan works in two ways:
- It helps the heart muscle contract better, so the heart moves blood more effectively.
- It relaxes the blood vessels, so the heart does not have to work as hard.
The Medication reduces the stress on the heart and increases the amount of blood pumped, without raising the heart’s oxygen or energy use.
Possible benefits include:
- Easier breathing
- Better energy levels
- Less coughing
In one study of dogs with heart failure, more than half of the dogs treated with Vetmedin products showed clear improvement in breathing and energy in as little as 7 days.
Vetmedin helps manage heart disease, but it does not cure it. Once a dog starts the medicine, it usually continues for the rest of the dog’s life.
What Forms of Vetmedin Are Available?
FDA-approved Vetmedin comes in two forms in the U.S.: chewable tablets and an oral solution (liquid).
Vetmedin Chewable Tablets
- Available in 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg strengths.
- The tablets are oblong and scored down the middle, so they can be split in half.
- They are beef-flavored for dogs that accept chewable medicine.
Available at HardyPaw (prescription required):
Vetmedin Chewable Tablets, 1.25 mg
Small-strength tablet, described by HardyPaw as suited to small or toy breeds.
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Vetmedin Chewable Tablets, 2.5 mg
Described by HardyPaw as suitable for small to medium-sized dogs.
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Vetmedin Chewable Tablets, 5 mg
Described by HardyPaw as suitable for small to medium-sized dogs.
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Vetmedin Chewable Tablets, 10 mg
Described by HardyPaw as best for large or giant breeds that need a higher dose.
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Note: Your veterinarian will decide which strength and how many tablets your dog needs.
Vetmedin Oral Solution
- A liquid form for dogs that do better with liquid medicine.
- The liquid should be given straight into the mouth, not mixed with food.
- It is given with the calibrated dosing syringe provided.
- Ask your veterinarian about this option if your dog refuses tablets.
Available at HardyPaw (prescription required):
Vetmedin Solution (pimobendan oral solution), 1.5 mg/mL, 50 mL
A prescription oral heart medication for dogs with the congestive heart failure caused by MMVD or DCM.
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How to order: HardyPaw works with your vet clinic to approve the prescription, and the prescription details are collected at the cart page. You can also browse the full Vetmedin collection at HardyPaw.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Vetmedin is a prescription medicine, so always consult your veterinarian before giving it to your dog.
If a dose is missed:
- Give the dose as soon as you remember.
- If it is almost time for the next dose skip the missed dose and continue the normal schedule.
- Never give two doses at the same time.
Possible Vetmedin Side Effects
Most dogs tolerate pimobendan well, but side effects can occur. The most common side effects reported in field studies were:
- Poor appetite
- Low energy (lethargy)
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Raised kidney values on blood tests
- Weakness
- Loss of balance or wobbly walking
Some of these signs can also come from the heart disease itself. Report any change to your veterinarian.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog:
- Has difficulty breathing
- Collapses or loses consciousness
- Has a seizure
- Appears bloated or has increased fluid in the belly
What Should Pet Parents Know If Their Dog Is Already on Vetmedin?
If your dog is already taking Vetmedin, give it exactly as prescribed, every day, and do not stop or change the dose without your veterinarian’s approval. Treatment usually continues for the rest of the dog’s life.
Giving the medicine
- Give the doses about 12 hours apart, at the same times each day.
- Be consistent in how each dose is given, with or without food, as your veterinarian directs.
- For the oral solution, use only the dosing syringe provided and give it straight into the mouth, not mixed with food.
- Never give more than the prescribed amount.
- If your dog refuses the tablets, speak to your veterinarian. They can discuss switching to the oral solution or other options.
If your dog vomits after a dose
- Speak to your veterinarian. Some dogs in clinical trials had mild vomiting that went away after a few doses.
- If the vomiting is severe or does not stop, contact your veterinarian right away for guidance.
Storage
- Store tablets at room temperature, 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
- Store the oral solution at or below 77°F. Once opened, use the bottle within eight weeks.
- Keep all medicines in a secure place, out of reach of children and animals.
Refills
- Request refills early so the medicine does not run out.
- Ask your veterinarian to keep your dog’s prescription current.
- You can refill Vetmedin at HardyPaw. HardyPaw also offers an Autoship program for eligible products.
Checkups and monitoring
- Keep all follow-up visits that your veterinarian recommends.
- Ask your veterinarian whether you should track your dog’s breathing rate at home. One manufacturer-supported resource notes that tracking a dog’s resting respiratory rate can give the veterinarian important information about how the heart condition is progressing.
- Tell your veterinarian about any new medicines or supplements. Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and sildenafil may interact with pimobendan.
- Do not switch between brand, generic, or compounded products without your veterinarian’s guidance.
Important Safety Information
- Not suitable for all heart conditions. Vetmedin should not be given to dogs with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, aortic stenosis or any condition where increasing the heart’s output is not appropriate.
- Limited safety data. Safe use has not been evaluated in dogs younger than 6 months, dogs with congenital heart defects, dogs with diabetes or other serious metabolic disease, or breeding, pregnant, or nursing dogs.
- Other medicines. Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and sildenafil may interact with pimobendan. Tell your veterinarian about every medicine and supplement your dog takes.
- Safe storage. Keep all medicines out of reach of children and animals.
Sources
The Vetmedin Education Hub offers more information on heart disease in dogs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is Vetmedin used for in dogs?
Ans: Vetmedin (pimobendan) is used to manage congestive heart failure in dogs caused by MMVD (a leaky heart valve) or DCM (a weak, enlarged heart muscle). It helps the heart pump more effectively and relaxes the blood vessels.
Q2: How long does a dog need to take Vetmedin?
Ans: Treatment usually continues for the rest of the dog’s life. Your veterinarian will decide the length of treatment based on your dog’s condition and test results.
Q3: What are the common side effects of Vetmedin?
Ans: Common side effects include poor appetite, low energy, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, weakness and loss of balance. Report any change to your veterinarian and seek urgent care if your dog has trouble in breathing or collapses.
Q4: How does Vetmedin work?
Ans: Vetmedin has a dual mode of action. It relaxes the blood vessels carrying blood to and from the heart, and it improves heart muscle function so the heart works more efficiently. This can help make breathing easier and improve energy in dogs with heart failure.
Q5: What should be done if a dose of Vetmedin is missed?
Ans: Wait until the next scheduled dosing time and return to the normal twice daily schedule, about 12 hours apart. Never give two doses at once.
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