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Pet Health Articles

Medications & Supplements + English

  • Dalteparin is an anticoagulant and blood thinner medication used off label (extra label) to treat and prevent thromboembolism (blood clots) in dogs, cats, and horses. Dalteparin is a low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), also known as fragmented heparin. It is given by injection under the skin (SQ).

  • Dantrolene is a muscle relaxant used to help relax the urinary tract and improve urine flow in cats and dogs. It has also been used to help prevent muscle contractions caused by certain toxicities in dogs and malignant hyperthermia in miniature pigs and dogs. It is used off label (extra label) in veterinary medicine. Dantrolene comes in capsule and injectable forms.

  • Darbepoetin alfa is prescribed off label to treat low red blood cell levels (anemia) caused by progressing kidney disease in dogs and cats. It comes as a clear, colorless, liquid solution that is injected under the skin.

  • Dasuquin® Advanced is a supplement used to improve joint function, reduce joint pain, and support flexibility and mobility in dogs and cats. Therapeutic ingredients include glucosamine, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), sodium chondroitin, and sulfate.

  • Decoquinate is given by mouth and is used off label in dogs to prevent coccidia infections. Side effects are uncommon. Do not use in animals that are allergic to it or to treat coccidia infections (only use as a preventive).

  • Topical deltamethrin/deltamethrin combination products (brand names PetArmor®, Sentry®, Zodiac®, others) are synthetic pyrethroid insecticides used to repel mosquitoes and kill fleas and ticks on dogs older than 12 weeks of age for up to 6 months. Products may be also used to repel and kill sandflies. Never use in cats or aquatic species. Deltamethrin/deltamethrin combination products come in an impregnated collar form.

  • Demecarium ophthalmic (demecarium bromide) is an eye medication used off label to prevent the onset of glaucoma in the healthy eye of dogs and rabbits who have glaucoma in one eye. It is occasionally prescribed for the treatment of active glaucoma, but is not as effective as other eye medications for this purpose.

  • Deracoxib (brand name Deramaxx) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used in dogs after surgery to reduce the pain associated with surgery (e.g., orthopedic and dental surgeries), as well as for the treatment of osteoarthritis. This article discusses possible side effects, risk factors, drug interactions, monitoring, and proper storage.

  • Dermaquin® is a supplement for dogs and cats that supports a healthy skin barrier. It contains a blend of nutritional ingredients, including hardy kiwi, omega fatty acids, and beta-glucans. It can be used alone or in conjunction with other skin treatments and medications.

  • Deslorelin (brand name Suprelorin-F®) is a synthetic hormonal agent used to manage adrenocortical disease in ferrets. Deslorelin has also been used as a temporary contraceptive in intact male dogs or ferrets, to suppress estrus in small mammals, to decrease reproductive behavior in pet birds, and to induce ovulation in horses. Caution when handling if pregnant or child-bearing age.