When your pet has a medical condition, your veterinarian might prescribe one or more medications intended to manage, treat or cure the problem. This list contains many commonly used medications for dogs and cats, but it is by no means a complete list.
•Antibiotics kill microbes, such as bacteria and yeast, and are used to treat infections. They don’t kill viruses, but they are sometimes prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections that can occur when an animal is ill from a viral infection. Examples include penicillin, trimethoprimsulfa, cephalexin and enrofloxacin.
•Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories reduce swelling, inflammation, pain and lameness. Examples: carprofen, deracoxib, firocoxib and meloxicam.
•Opioid pain relievers are generally derived from morphine and can be potent pain relievers. Examples: oxycodone, hydromorphone, butorphanol, meperidine and fentanyl. Most of these drugs are controlled substances because of their addictive potential.
•Steroids have many different uses. They can be potent anti-inflammatories and are frequently used to reduce allergic and anaphylactic reactions. They are also used at high doses to suppress the immune system. Examples: prednisone, prednisolone and dexamethasone.
•Antiparasitics are intended to prevent, repel or kill internal or external parasites such as intestinal worms, intestinal protozoans (Giardia, etc.), heartworms, fleas and ticks.
•Behavior-modifying drugs and sedatives are used to quiet anxious pets or help in reducing anxiety associated with various behavioral issues in pets, prepare pets for anesthesia, and to reduce pet movement during delicate procedures. Examples: diazepam, xylazine, acepromazine and midazolam.
•Chemotherapeutics are used to treat tumors and cancer. Examples: cisplatin, vincristine, doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide.
Source: American Veterinary Medical Association
Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection, Nov 2017
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