Anipryl (selegiline), also known as L-Deprenyl, is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) that treats Cushing's Disease and Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (senility). Anipryl requires a prescription from your veterinarian.
For: Dogs
Benefits:
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First and only FDA-approved drug used to control clinical signs associated with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
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First and only product approved to control uncomplicated PDH (pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism) Cushing’s disease
How it works: Anipryl increases the concentration of a nervous system messenger chemical called dopamine. Higher levels of dopamine improve many cognitive processes. Treating Cushing's Disease has traditionally been centered on suppressing the adrenal gland’s production and release of cortisone. However, this approach has a high potential for side effects. Selegiline has allowed for a new approach by suppressing the pituitary gland directly.
Cautions: Because Anipryl belongs to a class of drugs called Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI) it should not be given with antidepressants such as Prozac. Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals. If any serious side effects occur (difficulty breathing, hives, agitation; swelling of the lips, tongue or face), stop giving Anipryl and seek emergency veterinary medical attention.
More Information:
Brand Name Anipryl (Pfizer Animal Health), Eldepryl (Somerset)
Generic Name selegiline
What is the most important information I should know about Anipryl: Anipryl is a prescription medication FDA approved for veterinary use in the treatment of Cushing's disease caused by a pituitary tumor in dogs. Anipryl is also used to treat canine cognitive dysfunction. Anipryl is available as 5mg, 10mg, 15mg and 30mg tablets. The usual initial starting dose to treat Cushing's disease in dogs is 0.45mg/pound given once a day in the morning. If no results within 2 months may increase to 0.9mg/pound once a day. If still no response after one month of the increased dose, reevaluate the pet. The dose for canine cognitive dysfunction is 0.2-0.45mg/pound. It may take up to one month or more to see improvement. Do not give more of this medication than is prescribed without consulting your veterinarian. Anipryl may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
What is Anipryl: Anipryl, also known as L-deprenyl, is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOi) used in dogs for the treatment of Cushing's disease and canine cognitive dysfunction. It is not known specifically how Anipryl works. However, it is believed that Anipryl prevents the breakdown of dopamine. Anipryl may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Anipryl to my pet: Anipryl should not be given if the pet is taking meperidine. Tell your veterinarian about any other medical conditions your pet has. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or lactating.
How should this medication be given: Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Allow pet to drink plenty of water. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Store Anipryl at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.
What happens if I miss giving a dose: Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.
What happens if I overdose the pet: Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of Anipryl overdose include excitement, irritability, nervousness, insomnia, dizziness, severe headache, hallucinations, weakness, sweating and seizures.
What should I avoid while giving Anipryl to my pet: Anipryl may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Do not give higher doses than those prescribed.
What are the possible side effects of Anipryl: If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving Anipryl and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue or face; hives), a severe headache, restlessness, agitation, or irritability, sweating, convulsions, uncontrollable or irregular movements. Other less serious side effects may occur. Continue giving Anipryl and talk to your veterinarian if your pet develops dizziness or drowsiness, nausea, abdominal pain or diarrhea, insomnia, mild confusion, agitation or anxiety, dry mouth. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.
What other drugs will affect Anipryl: Before giving Anipryl tell your veterinarian if your pet is also taking fluoxetine or meperidine. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines.
Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional information about Anipryl written for health professionals that you may read.
Directions:
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Anipryl is a prescription medication used in dogs for the treatment of Cushing’s disease caused by a pituitary tumor.
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Anipryl is also used in dogs to treat canine cognitive dysfunction.
Tip: Do not give more of this medication than is prescribed without consulting your veterinarian. Anipryl may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Dosage:
Pet
Weight
Dosage
Dogs: (when used for cognitive dysfunction)
All weights
The dose for canine cognitive dysfunction is 0.2mg-0.45mg per pound of body weight. It may take up to one month or more to see improvement
Dogs: (when used for Cushing’s disease)
All weights
The usual starting dose to treat Cushing’s disease is 0.45mg per pound of pet’s body weight given once a day in the morning. If no result within two months, may increase to 0.9mg per pound of pet’s body weight. If still no response after one month of the increased dose, reevaluate the pet
Cats:
Horses:
Storage: Should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
15mg dosage Symptoms were moderate to advanced prior to starting Anipryl. Anipryl was highly effective for my previously owned 12 year old Basset Hound--This medication greatly improved most symptoms quickly and bought us close to 2 yrs additional time with him.
30mg dosage for my 11 1/2 yr old male Beagle/Basset Hound Mix Symptoms treated shortly after onset Immediate positive difference--less agitation, less confusion, less depressed, less anxiety, more animated, improved sleep/wake cycle, improved response to his name being called, and being petted, less purposeless behaviors, more playful
My dog is 12 yrs old and for the past two years, has been needing to get up and go outside 2-3 times a night. The uninterrupted sleep was taking a toll on both of us....but at least the dog could sleep during the day!
I stumbled across Anipryl after researching dog's that were unable to sleep through the night....I wish I'd done it 2 years ago LOL. It has taken about 1.5 months to work, but now my dog is sleeping 6 consecutive hours at night, which is so much better than 3 hours.
Consider getting a higher dose and cutting the pill in half to save money - of course, consult with your vet.
Our 15 year old Yellow Lab responded very well to a daily morning 30mg dose @ a 70lb body weight. It did take nearly a month to kick in, but when it did, the change was exceptional. It truly did return him to us. It was an unforgettable Fall season where a 15 year old puppy ran on the beach at full joy...bonus time.
Our 14 year old Golden Retriever began taking Anapril over a year ago. Within a month of beginning the medication we saw a positive change: decreased wandering and more restful sleep. We've never had such an old golden! It's a pleasure to see him age more gracefully than expected.
Great question. Yes. You can take the 30mg tablet and cut it in half if the recommended dose is 15mg. I would recommend using a pill splitter to do this.
Do the side affects eventually subside or do I need to stop giving them to her? Her vet is unfortunately not familiar with this medication. So I have to do all the ground work. I would appreciate any input Thank you
You're saying your veterinarian prescribed a medication for your pet that she is not familiar with? Diarrhea and vomiting are common side effects for this medication. It's possible that the symptoms will go away as the pet gets used to the medication. However, if these symptoms continue more than 4 or 5 days, your veterinarian may want to consider either adjusting the dose or possibly using a different medication. In the meantime you should watch what you feed your pet and keep plenty of water available for her to drink.
This information sheet is for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. The information is NOT to be used for diagnosis or treatment of your pet. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, allergic reactions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for your pet. It is not a substitute for a veterinary exam, and it does not replace the need for services provided by your veterinarian. Note: Any trademarks are the property of their respective companies.