Zycortal by Dechra Veterinary Products

Zycortal is the generic alternative to Percorten V for treatment of Addison's Disease.

Zycortal Suspension (desoxycorticosterone pivalate) is used as replacement therapy for the mineralocorticoid deficit in dogs with primary adrenocortical insufficiency (Addison’s Disease). Canine Addison's Disease (hypoadrenocorticism) is a condition in which a dog's adrenal glands aren't working properly. Adrenal glands produce chemicals and hormones that help regulate many bodily functions such as metabolism, blood pressure, and stress response.

Zycortal Suspension contains 25 mg/ml desoxycorticosterone pivalate, which is recognized as having the same qualitative effects as the natural hormone aldosterone. The beginning dose may be recommended at 1 mg per pound of body weight every 25 days. Zycortal increases the rate of sodium absorption and enhances potassium excretion. Zycortal also increases extracellular fluid volume, which expands blood volume and improves the venous return to the heart and cardiac output.

This effect prevents the life-threatening hypotensive shock and prerenal azotemia observed in animals suffering from hypoadrenocorticism.

Desoxycorticosterone Pivalate
(DOCP)
(Percorten-V)
(Zycortal)

Common Drug Name
Desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP)

Common Brand Names
Percorten-V
(Zycortal)

Storage
Store at room temperature in a tight, light resistant, childproof container. Protect from freezing. Do not mix with any other injectable medication.

Uses
DOCP is a mineralocorticoid used to treat Addison’s disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) in dogs and cats.

Dose and Administration
Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian.
Dosage varies per patient and is adjusted based upon blood electrolyte (e.g., sodium and potassium) levels.
DOCP is an injectable medication. Shake the vial vigorously before each use, and follow your veterinarian’s directions on how to give the injection. Injections are usually given every 21-30 days. Treatment is needed for life.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give 2 doses at once.
This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

Possible Side Effects
May see irritation at injection site.  If given at too low of a dose, may see signs of Addison’s disease (weakness, depression, lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea). If given at too high of a dose may see increased thirst and urination, and edema (swelling, fluid accumulation in the limbs). If you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.
If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Precautions
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it or drugs similar to it.
Do not use in pregnant or lactating animals (female animals nursing their young).
Do not use in patients with congestive heart failure, kidney disease, or edema (swelling).
Do NOT give DOCP intravenously (IV, into the vein).
Consult with your veterinarian regarding the physical examinations and laboratory testing necessary prior to and during treatment with DOCP.

Drug, Food, and Test Interactions
Consult your veterinarian before using vitamins and supplements, diuretics, insulin, digitalis, amphotericin B or potassium-depleting diuretics like Furosemide (Lasix, Salix), since interactions may occur.

Signs of Toxicity/Overdose
May see an increase in drinking and urinating, changes in heart rate or rhythm due to abnormal blood levels of electrolytes, or edema.
Heart enlargement is possible with long-term overdosing.
If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.

This information may not cover all possible uses, directions, side effects, precautions, allergic reactions, drug interactions, or withdrawal times.  Always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.