Vetmedin (Pimobendan) Solution for Dogs, 1.5mg/mL, 50 mL

VETMEDIN® Solution (pimobendan oral solution) is indicated for the management of the signs of mild, moderate, or severe congestive heart failure in dogs due to clinical myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). VETMEDIN® Solution is indicated for use with concurrent therapy for congestive heart failure (e.g., furosemide, etc.) as appropriate on a case-by-case basis.

VETMEDIN® Solution may cause side effects, even at the prescribed dose. The most common side effects are poor appetite, lack of energy (lethargy), diarrhea, shortness of breath, weakness, and ataxia (lack of muscle control and coordination). Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog develops a serious or concerning medical problem or side effect while taking VETMEDIN® Solution.

Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian. The safety of VETMEDIN® Solution (pimobendan oral solution) has not been established in dogs with asymptomatic heart disease or in heart failure caused by etiologies other than AVVI or DCM. The safe use of VETMEDIN has not been evaluated in dogs younger than 6 months of age, dogs with congenital heart defects, dogs with diabetes mellitus or other serious metabolic diseases, dogs used for breeding, or pregnant or lactating bitches.

How does VETMEDIN® Solution (pimobendan oral solution) work?
VETMEDIN has a unique dual mode of action, dilating the blood vessels carrying blood to and from the heart, reducing the load on the heart. It also increases the contraction of the heart muscle, without putting additional stress on the heart.

How can VETMEDIN® help my dog?

Once a dog goes into heart failure, VETMEDIN can relieve the symptoms of heart failure and, according to previous studies, improve quality of life in dogs, and most importantly help extend the survival time of dogs with clinical evidence of heart failure.

How long does VETMEDIN® take to work?

Studies have shown that improvement can be seen in as little as 7 days.*

How do I give VETMEDIN® to my dog?

According to the product label, VETMEDIN should be administered directly in the mouth (orally). Do no mix into food. VETMEDIN comes in an oral solution that makes administration easy for dogs that prefer liquid medication and delivers just the right dose they need.

When should I give my Dog VETMEDIN®?

VETMEDIN should be given at the onset of clinical signs of heart failure. Possible signs of heart failure include fainting, difficulty breathing, and persistent coughing. If you think your dog is showing the symptoms of heart failure, consult with your veterinarian.

Can VETMEDIN® be given with food?

VETMEDIN Solution should be administered directly into the mouth (orally). Do not mix into food.

At what dose and how often should I give VETMEDIN® to my dog?

VETMEDIN should be administered per your veterinarian’s prescription specific to your dog.

What should I do if I miss a dose of VETMEDIN®?

If a dose of VETMEDIN is missed give the next scheduled dose at the normal time. There’s no need to give a higher dose.

What dosing strengths does VETMEDIN® come in?

VETMEDIN Solution is presented in only one dose strength. It should be administered orally at a total daily dose of 0.23 mg/lb (0.5 mg/kg) bodyweight using the syringe included in the package.

Can VETMEDIN® be used with all dogs?

VETMEDIN Solution is only for use in dogs with clinical signs of heart failure. The safety of VETMEDIN Solution has not been established in dogs with asymptomatic heart disease or in heart failure caused by etiologies other than Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). The safe use of VETMEDIN® has not been evaluated in dogs younger than 6 months of age, dogs with congenital heart defects, dogs with diabetes mellitus or other serious metabolic diseases, dogs used for breeding, or pregnant or lactating bitches.

What are the side effects of VETMEDIN®?

The most common side effects of VETMEDIN are poor appetite, lack of energy (lethargy), diarrhea, shortness of breath, weakness, and ataxia (lack of muscle control and coordination). If side effects occur, consult your veterinarian.

Can VETMEDIN® and enalapril ACE-inhibitor be taken together?

VETMEDIN and enalapril can be taken together as appropriate on a case-by-case basis. Many veterinarians will prescribe a combination of drugs for dogs with congestive heart failure, and VETMEDIN and enalapril are a common combination. Be sure to discuss all medications your dog is taking before starting a new prescription and call your vet immediately if you notice any side effects.

Can VETMEDIN® and ACE-inhibitors be taken together?

VETMEDIN, furosemide and ACE-inhibitors can be taken together, but these (and other) drugs should only be taken in combination when specifically prescribed together by your veterinarian. Be sure to thoroughly discuss all medications and supplements your dog may be taking before starting any new prescription.

What is the best number to call regarding any specific product questions?

For any specific product questions, please call the Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health customer service line number at 1-888-637-4251.

Recommended Dosage
VETMEDIN® Solution (pimobendan oral solution) should be administered directly in the mouth (orally) at a total daily dose of 0.23 mg/lb (0.5 mg/kg) body weight. Do not mix into food. The total daily dose should be divided into 2 equal portions administered approximately 12 hours apart (ie., morning and evening). The syringe is calibrated to deliver the appropriate morning or evening dose when drawn to the dog's nearest weight in pounds, each dose should be rounded up to the nearest 1 lb. increment. Do NOT shake the bottle before or after to avoid foaming.

Storage Instructions
VETMEDIN Solution should be stored at room temperature at or below 77°F (25°C). Temperatures as high as 86°F (30°C) can be acceptable for short periods of time. Do not shake. Once the bottle is opened, use the contents within 8 weeks. Keep VETMEDIN Solution in a secure location out of reach of dogs, cats, and other animals to prevent accidental ingestion or overdose.