PHENYLPROPANOLAMINE

Why has my veterinarian prescribed Phenylpropanolamine for my dog?

Phenylpropanolamine is used to treat dogs unable to hold their urine (urinary incontinence). This medication is classified as an alpha adrenergic stimulant. This medication has also been used to help manage nasal congestion.

How do I give Phenylpropanolamine to my dog?

• Give this medication to your dog as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
• DO NOT give your dog more medicine than directed.
• DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
• DO NOT stop giving this medication to your dog without first consulting the veterinarian. Call your veterinarian ahead of time if your dog requires refills of the medication.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• It may take several days before the medication takes effect.

What do I do if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give your dog two doses at once.

How do I store Phenylpropanolamine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

What are the potential side effects?

• Your dog may experience a loss of appetite, restlessness, irritability, tremors, fast heart rate, high blood pressure and urine retention.
• If these symptoms appear excessive or persist, contact your veterinarian.If your dog becomes nauseous, looses its appetite, vomits, has a fast heart rate, appears disoriented and the pupils dilate, contact your veterinarian.
• Other side effects may occur, if you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Are there any possible drug interactions?

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your dog.
• Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following drugs can potentially interact with phenylpropanolamine: tricyclic antidepressants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, halogenated anesthetic agents, ephedrine, chlorpromazine, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, reserpine, and ganglionic blocking agents.
• Contact your veterinarian if your dog experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.

REMEMBER!  READ THE LABEL.

Based on material written by Rita Ozolins, B.Sc., Phm. and modified with permission from Lifelearn Inc.
© Copyright 2005 Lifelearn Inc.