1. What tests are needed to switch a dog
from Percorten-V (desoxycorticosterone
pivalate) to Florinef?
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Florinef administration should begin on the day of the
next scheduled Percorten-v injection. Initially,
serum electrolyte concentrations should be assessed every 1 to 2 weeks. The
goal is to maintain normal serum and potassium concentrations. The initial Florinef dose may need to be adjusted depending on serum
electrolyte concentrations.
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2. What is the proper dosage of Florinef for Canine Addison's Disease?
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0.02
mg/kg/day
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3. Who can prescribe Florinef?
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Florinef can be prescribed by a veterinarian and is
available in 0.1 mg tablets through pharmacies.
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4. How often do you need to administer a
dosage of Florinef?
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Administration
of Florinef is required daily.
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5. Are there any side effects of risks
involved when switching dogs to Florinef?
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The
major drawbacks to fludrocortisone acetate have
been as follows:
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5.1
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Wide
range in doses required to control the serum electrolyte concentrations.
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5.2
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Development
of polyuria, polydipsia
and incontinence (presumably caused by the potent glucocorticoid
activity of this drug)
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5.3
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Resistance
to the effects of the drug
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5.4
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Persistent
mild hyperkalemia and hyponatremia
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6. Is there any information that a
veterinarian should be aware of before prescribing Florinef?
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Glucocorticoid supplementation is initially indicated for
all dogs with primary adrenal insufficiency. Prednisone is given at an
initial dose of 0.22 mg/kg BID. The dose of prednisone should gradually be
reduced to the lowest one that still prevents the signs of hypocortisolism (i.e., inappetence,
vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy). Because of its potent glucocorticoid
activity, approximately 50% of dogs receiving fludrocortisone
ultimately do not require glucocorticoid
medication, except during times of stress (i.e., surgery). All owners should
have glucocorticoids available to administer to
their dogs in times of stress.
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7. What tests need to be performed on
dogs in order to switch them back to Percorten-v
from Florinef?
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Percorten-v administration can be initiated the day after
Florinef dosing is discontinued. Serum electrolyte
concentrations should be asessed on day 14 and 25
after initiating therapy with Percorten-v. See
product insert for more information for the use of Percorten-v.
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