When a small dog is diagnosed with congestive heart failure, even simple things like giving medication can become challenging. Many standard tablet sizes do not always match the needs of smaller patients, which is where compounding can play an important role.
At Avrio Pharmacy, we work with veterinarians to help provide pimobendan in forms and strengths that may better fit each pet’s specific needs.
Why Pimobendan Matters for Small Dogs
Pimobendan is commonly prescribed to help manage congestive heart failure in dogs. It works by supporting heart function and helping blood vessels relax, which can reduce the overall strain on the heart.
For small dogs, weight-based dosing is especially important. Since dosing is based on body weight, smaller patients often require doses unavailable in standard tablets.
Challenges With Standard Pimobendan Dosing
Sometimes, commercially available pimobendan tablets can create a few common challenges in dosing smaller breeds:
- Tablets may need to be split into very small portions for required weight-based dosing
- Dosing can become difficult due to the size of the tablet
- Dosing can become difficult due to the flavoring and palatability of the tablet
- Some dogs may refuse tablets altogether
How Compounding Can Help
Compounding allows medications like pimobendan to be prepared in a way that may better fit the patient.
For small dogs, this may include:
- Customizing strengths to match the prescribed weight-based dose
- Removing allergens
- Adjustments that make administration easier for pet owners
- Reducing tablet size to make dosing easier
- Flavoring (or unflavoring) to make more palatable
Compounding may help simplify the medication administration process by the pet-owner and may improve patient-specific compliance.
Working With Your Veterinarian
Pimobendan should always be used under the direction of a veterinarian. If a standard option is not the right fit, a veterinarian may choose to prescribe a compounded version based on the pet’s size, condition, treatment plan, and other patient-specific needs.
At Avrio Pharmacy, we work closely with veterinarians and their teams to help prepare customized compounded medications. Avrio Pharmacy has a strong focus on quality and customer service.
Supporting Small Dogs With Heart Conditions
Managing heart conditions in small dogs often requires ongoing care and attention. Having the right medication in a form that may be easier to give can make that process more manageable for both pets and their owners.
If you have questions about compounded pimobendan or want to learn more about available options, our team is here to help.
How to Order Pimobendan
Are you a veterinarian?
Compounded pimobendan prescriptions can be sent to Avrio Pharmacy in a few different ways:
- Submit through our online portal: order.avriorx.com
- Call in: 480-270-6700
- Fax: 480-270-6701
Are you a pet owner?
You can bring in a compounded pimobendan written prescription to our Scottsdale, Arizona, pharmacy or ask your veterinarian to send it to Avrio Pharmacy using one of the options above. Shipping is available to any of our licensed states.
If you have questions about the process or need more information, our team is here to assist. We are open Monday through Friday 8am to 6pm MST and Saturdays from 9am to 2pm to assist in person.
We are available via phone Monday through Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm MST and Saturday from 9am to 2pm MST.
References:
- PetMD – Pimobendan (Vetmedin) for Dogs
https://www.petmd.com/pet-medication/vetmedin-vetmedin-ca1-for-dogs - Drugs.com – Vetmedin (Pimobendan) Chewable Tablets – Veterinary Medication Information
https://www.drugs.com/vet/vetmedin-pimobendan-chewable-tablets.html - FDA – Approval of Generic Pimobendan for Management of Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs
https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-approves-first-generic-pimobendan-management-congestive-heart-failure-dogs - PubMed Central, U.S. National Library of Medicine – Veterinary Compounding: Regulation, Challenges, and Resources
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5374371/
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Pimobendan should only be used under the guidance of a licensed veterinarian. Dosage, administration, and suitability of the medication depend on your pet’s specific condition, size, and health status. Always consult your veterinarian before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment. Avrio Pharmacy provides compounded medications only with a valid veterinary prescription.