My dog was diagnosed 1 month ago with Addison’s Disease and I was wondering if there are things that can help instead of him being on steriods and cortisol shots the rest of his life.
Please let me know.
Thanks
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Addison’s disease is a lack of physiologic normal daily production of cortisone and a hormone to control electrolyte disturbances. Without these hormones, death ensures. Replacement therapy should only replace what is normally produced on a daily basis by the body (no more, no less) therefore no detrimental side effects are expected.
The injectable form of the medication contains a small amount of cortisone, consequently, most patients don’t require additional supplemental cortisone.
Alternatively, an oral form of the medication is available and again, only a small percentage of Addisonian patient require supplemental cortisone.
However, if necessary, again realize it is physiologic dosed (0.25 mg/kg or less every 12 hours) and should not be associated with side effects.
The most common error in management of these patients is to “over control”
them with medication. Specifically, attempting to too tightly regulate the electrolytes which is used as a marker for adequate control. It is not only acceptable but recommended the electrolytes should be slightly out of the normal range tot avoid overdosing with the medications with the potential of causing unwanted side effects (e.g. Excessive thirst, urinations, panting, and lethargy). The properly managed patients are typically normal, do not experience any untoward side effects from the mildly abnormal electrolyte concentrations and can be expected to live a normal life span.
Hope this helps,
T. L. Medinger, DVM, MS, DACVIM (SAIM)
I do not know anything about Addisons disease, but if I was you I would check out a Holistic vet and see what they have to say, I do know that a good brand of dog food as well as a kelp blend helps as well to keep a dog healthy. Good Luck
Hi, A dog with Addison’s is highly dependent on its medications. The dose of steroids can frequently be reduced. the shot you refer to is percorten. I have had great success using a max. of 1 cc every 30 days regardless of size. one stabilized we test electrolytes every 4 months or if the dog is not doing well. electrolyte testing is the only way to test for treatment response. The acth diagnostic test will always be low regardless of medications so do not have that run again.
Hope this helps,
Dr Bob Esplin
SylvaniaVET
Sylvania Veterinary Hospital
Sylvania, OH