Endocrine

Vetoryl is prescribed for dogs that are diagnosed with Cushings syndrome (pituitary-dependent and adrenal dependent hyperandrenocoticsim.

What is Cushing’s syndrome or Cushing Disease?

Both pets and humans can suffer Cushing Syndrome, or hypercortisolism.  It happens more often in middle-aged and older dogs, and there are some breeds of dogs that are more likely to develop Cushing disease, such as poodles, dachshunds and smaller terrier breeds.

Cushing’s syndrome means that the body has abnormally high levels of the hormone cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal glands.  A hormone called ACTH controls the production and release of cortisol from the adrenal glands. ACTH itself is produced by the pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland located at the base of the brain. Cortisol is a natural steroid produced by the body, and a normal amount helps the body adapt, in times of stress.  It regulates proper body weight, skin condition and tissue structure.  However, too much cortisol leaves the immune system weakened, and can lead to other diseases and infections.

Sometimes this over-production of cortisol is pituitary-dependent (about 80 percent of Cushing’s disease is caused by a tumour on the pituitary gland that overstimulates the production of cortisol), or it may be adrenal-dependent (caused by a tumour in an adrenal gland).   Your vet will do tests to diagnose Cushings, and to determine what is causing it.

Left untreated, hypercortisolism not only lessens your dog’s quality of life, but increases your dog’s risk of developing serious diseases like diabetes, blood clots, kidney infection and pancreatitis.

There are treatments to help your dog with Cushing’s syndrome!

Most cases of Cushings are treated with medications, rather than surgery, and it is normally a lifelong condition, once your pet is diagnosed.  However, it can be managed and your dog can live a good life with well-managed Cushing’s syndrome.  You’ll be pleased to know that veterinary medicine has made big progress, and it is possible for your dog to enjoy many years with a good quality of life, after being diagnosed with Cushing’s disease. 

What is Vetoryl?

Vetoryl is the only licensed Cushing’s treatment for use in dogs, and contains the active ingredient trilostane.  This drug rapidly reduces the production of cortisol by the adrenal glands. Vetoryl treats both pituitary-dependent and adrenal-dependent Cushing’s in dogs.  

What can I expect when my dog starts on Vetoryl?

• Vetoryl starts working in the body in a matter of hours.
• Some symptoms of Cushings Disease can disappear quickly, once treatment commences, and other symptoms can take a few weeks before the full effect of Vetoryl is seen, but there should be gradual improvements after the first few doses. 
• Many dogs with Cushings disease have a ravenous