Percorten-V ® (Brand)

What is Percorten-V?
Percorten-V is used to treat Addison's disease (adrenocortical insufficiency) in dogs and cats.

Who is it for?
It is labeled for use in dogs but may be prescribed for off-label use in cats.

What are the benefits?

*	Improves life quality & expectancy in dogs & cats with Addison's Disease
*	Helps prevent electrolyte disturbances
*	Long-acting injection

How does Percorten-V work?
Addison's disease in dogs is also known as hypoadrenocorticism. It is a disease that results from the reduction in steroid secretion by the adrenal gland. Percorten-V is used as replacement therapy for the mineralocorticoid deficit in pets with Addison's disease. Mineralocorticoids are steroids that help balance the sodium, potassium, and other electrolyte levels in the body.

Percorten-V also prevents the life-threatening shock and build up of potentially toxic substances in the blood in animals with Addison's disease.

The most important effect of Percorten-V is to increase the rate of absorption of sodium and water by the kidney. The increased absorption of water into the blood stream helps maintain blood pressure. Another important effect of Percorten-V is increased excretion of potassium by the kidney into the urine.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
No generic products are available.

How is it given?
Percorten-V is an injectable medication. Shake the vial vigorously before each use, and follow your veterinarian's directions on how to give the injection. Do NOT give Percorten-V intravenously (IV, into the vein). Injections are usually given every 21-30 days, but follow your veterinarian's directions exactly.

Dosage varies per patient and is adjusted based upon blood electrolyte (e.g., sodium and potassium) levels.

Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian.

What results can I expect?
Percorten-V will not cure Addison's disease, but it will help decrease some of the symptoms associated with the disease. The dosage will be determined by your veterinarian depending upon your pet's response to treatment. Treatment of Addison's disease must continue for the life of the animal. Other medications will also be necessary in the treatment of this disease.

What form(s) does it come in?
Injectable Suspension

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Percorten-V®

Pronunciation
Per-COR-Ten Vee

Generic Drug Name
Desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP)

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Percorten-V?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be available to treat your pet's condition. Have your veterinarian or veterinary staff show you how to properly give the injection.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has been diagnosed with congestive heart failure or kidney disease, or is pregnant or may be used for breeding.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, contact your veterinarian.

What is the most important information I should know?
Percorten-V will not cure Addison's disease, but will help manage the symptoms. Shake the bottle well, and use a sterile needle and proper technique when giving the injection. The amount and frequency of administration will be determined by your veterinarian and is dependent upon your pet's response to the treatment. Be aware of the side effects of overdose and signs of worsening of the disease (weakness, depression, collapse, vomiting, diarrhea). Contact your veterinarian if you see these signs.

Who should not take it?
Do not use in pregnant animals unless benefits outweigh the risks. Do not use in patients with congestive heart failure, kidney disease, or edema (swelling). Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it or drugs similar to it.

What side effects may be seen when taking Percorten-V?
Signs of overdosage may include increased drinking and urination, and edema (fluid accumulation that generally causes swelling of the limbs). Other side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weakness, incontinence, weight loss, pain during injection or abscesses at the injection site. If you observe any of these side effects, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Protect from freezing. Do not mix with any other injectable medication. Keep out or reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
[Back] Signs of overdosage may include increased drinking and urination, weight gain and edema (fluid accumulation that generally causes swelling of the limbs). If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these side effects, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Percorten-V?
Consult your veterinarian before using vitamins and supplements, diuretics (such as furosemide, Lasix or Salix), insulin, digitalis, aspirin, amphotericin B, since interactions may occur.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet on this medication.

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