In this article on our site we are going to talk about varidasa. It is an antithrombotic drug for oral administration and of controversial use, as there are studies that have indicated it is ineffective, to which it must be added that it is an exclusive drug for human medicine. Perhaps that is why varidase for dogs is not widely used. In any case, like all drugs, we must use it only following the instructions given by the veterinarian. It should not be offered to a dog other than the one prescribed or administered at any other time or condition.
That said, read on to discover with us the varidase uses for dogs, dosage and side effects.
What is varidase?
Varidase is a drug used in human medicine that is included in the group known as antithrombotics Antithrombotics serve to prevent the formation of of blood clots, also called thrombi, or at least help prevent them from increasing in size. Its active ingredients are streptokinase and streptodornase Streptokinase is an enzyme that, as a medicine, is used to break up clots. Streptodornase is also an enzyme with an effect on clots.
The vet could prescribe varidase for dogs, as it is a drug for which there is no equivalent in veterinary medicine. But, for this same reason, both the indications for its use and the recommended doses can only be prescribed by this professional. And, as caregivers, we must follow them scrupulously.
What is varidase used for in dogs?
Varidase is a drug used to treat inflammation that occurs acutely or, conversely, chronically. It is also used to treat inflammation when it is associated with an infection, in which case the prescription of appropriate antibiotics will also be necessary depending on the causative bacteria. In addition, varidase can be used for inflammation caused by trauma where edema or fluid accumulation or hematoma has occurred.
The problem with varidase is that its use is controversial There are some studies carried out for human medicine that cast doubt on its efficacy. In them, it has been determined that the drug is not absorbed when administered orally, so the effects attributed to the active ingredients that compose it could not be manifested in this way.
Perhaps for this reason, and because there is no formulation specifically formulated for veterinary medicine, it is not a widely used medication for dogs. On the other hand, the combination of streptokinase and streptodornase, active principles of varidase, are marketed for topical use and do work to eliminate clots or purulent material present in wounds or cavities.
Dose Varidase for Dogs
Varidase can be found in tablets for oral administration. The dose can only be established by the veterinarian and will depend on the weight of the dog, the doses decided for each day and its clinical situation, since in acute cases it may be necessary to prescribe a higher dose than in chronic ones. Being a drug that is only found in human medicine, it is essential that both the dosage and the posology be established by the veterinarian, since he will have to make the conversion to adapt to the needs of our dog. The professional will also indicate the duration of the treatment. Although we see improvement, it is very important that we respect the guideline established by the veterinarian and continue administering it until the end, which is usually a week from the start.
Contraindications and side effects of varidase for dogs
Of course, never give varidase to a dog that has shown an allergic reaction to any of the components of this drug. It is also not recommended when blood coagulation, heart, liver or kidney disorders, high blood pressure or a decreased number of platelets have been confirmed.
If the dog is taking or has taken any other medication, it is essential to inform the veterinarian to avoid possible harmful drug interactions. This notice includes drugs that do not require a prescription. Any allergic reaction should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian. Severe cases, known as anaphylactic shock, are emergencies that must be attended to immediately.
Other side effects that may be seen when giving a dog varidase are those that affect the digestive system. The most characteristic are the nauseas, the diarrhea, the abdominal pain or the vomiting There could also be dermatological problems, liver, muscle discomfort, fever and weakness. In any case, these side effects are rare. Furthermore, it is not safe to administer varidase to bitches during pregnancy or lactation.
