Pet Health
- August 09, 2024
When it comes to keeping our pets healthy, medication prescribed by a veterinarian is often essential. However, understanding the ins and outs of a veterinary prescription can sometimes be confusing. In this article, we'll break down what a veterinary prescription is, what information it must include by law in Australia, and some important details you should know about repeats and expiry dates.
What is a Veterinary Prescription?
A veterinary prescription is a formal document provided by a registered veterinarian that authorizes
- March 19, 2024
In the heart of Australia's diverse landscapes, nature provides a wealth of remedies that can contribute to the well-being of our beloved pets. In this article, we'll explore natural solutions for common pet ailments, incorporating the healing power of Australian ingredients. PetScripts.com.au, your trusted online pet pharmacy, introduces a range of gentle and effective remedies to support your pet's health.
1. Tea Tree Oil for Skin Issues:- Common Ailment: Skin irritations and minor wounds
- Australian Solution: Tea tree oil, known for its antimicrobial properties, can be diluted and applied topically to soothe skin irritations and promote healing. Ensure proper dilution to avoid skin sensitivity.
2. Manuka Honey for Wound Healing:- Common Ailment: Cuts and abrasions
- Australian Solution: Manuka honey, sourced from native Australian Manuka trees, has natural antibacterial properties.
- February 29, 2024
Australia's diverse landscape and rich biodiversity offer a treasure trove of natural ingredients that can positively impact the health and well-being of our pets. In this article, we'll delve into the benefits of incorporating natural Australian ingredients into pet products.
The Power of Natural Australian Ingredients:
1. Kangaroo MeatBenefit: Lean and rich in protein, kangaroo meat is an excellent source of essential amino acids, promoting muscle health and supporting your pet's overall vitality.
2. Emu Oil:Benefit: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, emu oil helps soothe and moisturise your pet's skin, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy, glossy coat.
3. Manuka Honey:Benefit: Renowned for its antibacterial properties, Manuka honey can be used in pet products to aid wound healing, alleviate skin irritations, and support digestive health.
4. - January 02, 2024
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Apoquel, a popular medication among Australian pet owners. As a trusted online pet pharmacy, Petscripts.com.au is dedicated to providing accurate and helpful information to ensure the well-being of your furry friends. Whether you're a long-time user or considering Apoquel for the first time, this guide will cover all you need to know.
What is Apoquel?
Apoquel (Oclacitinib) is a medication prescribed by veterinarians primarily to treat and control itching and inflammation in dogs due to various skin conditions, such as allergies and dermatitis. Its popularity in Australia stems from its effectiveness and relatively quick action.
Ingredients and How It WorksThe active ingredient in Apoquel is Oclacitinib, a selective Janus kinase inhibitor. It targets specific pathways involved in the allergic reaction and inflammatory process, providing relief from itching and swelling. This targeted
- October 19, 2023
As loving pet owners, ensuring the well-being of our four-legged friends is always a top priority. When navigating through the realms of veterinary medications, understanding the ins and outs of available options becomes paramount. In today's discussion, we will explore and contrast two widely recognized medications: Maxalon and Cerenia, guiding you to make informed decisions for your cherished pets.
Maxalon: A Peek into the Medication
What is Maxalon?
Maxalon, with its active ingredient metoclopramide, stands out as a dual-functioning prescription medication, serving both antiemetic and prokinetic roles in managing gastrointestinal issues in pets.
How Does Maxalon Work?
Maxalon acts by reducing nausea and also enhancing the motility of the gastrointestinal
- September 14, 2023
In today's digital age, convenience reigns supreme, and pet care hasn't been left behind. The rise of online pet pharmacies, like PetScripts, offers numerous advantages for Aussie pet owners. But what are these benefits, and how do they revolutionize pet care in the land Down Under?
1. Convenience at Your Fingertips
Gone are the days when one had to make a separate trip to a physical store to get Fluffy's medication. Online pet pharmacies offer the luxury of home delivery. With just a few clicks, you can have essential medications delivered straight to your door, saving time and reducing hassle.
2. Competitive Pricing
Without the overhead costs of brick-and-mortar stores, online platforms often provide more competitive prices. This affordability ensures that your pet gets the care they deserve without breaking the bank.
3. A Wide Range of Products
For specialised pet medications,
- August 23, 2023
For many Australian pet owners, navigating the world of pet prescriptions can be both confusing and overwhelming. Whether it's understanding the differences between human and pet medications, or figuring out how to safely and effectively treat your furry friend, there's a lot to learn. Fortunately, this guide will help break down the essentials for you.
Differences Between Human and Pet Medications
While there are similarities between human and pet medications, there are also distinct differences to be aware of. For instance, certain drugs safe for humans can be toxic for pets. Moreover, dosages and frequencies might vary significantly. It's crucial, therefore, to rely on a veterinarian's prescription rather than making assumptions or transferring human medication knowledge directly to pets.
How Veterinary Prescriptions Work in Australia
Veterinary prescriptions in Australia follow strict guidelines.
- April 30, 2021
Pexion is prescribed for dogs that are diagnosed with neurological conditions like epileptic seizures or epileptic fits that are of unknown causes (idiopathic) and affecting most or all of the brain (generalised seizures). It can also be prescribed to reduce anxiety and fear associated with noise and other phobias.
IMPORTANT NOTE AT AT MAY 2021: PEXION MANUFACTURER ANNOUNCES GLOBAL DISRUPTION TO SUPPLY OF PEXION - OUT OF STOCK WORLDWIDE!
The manufacturer of Pexion has advised that, due to Covid19 related interruptions, there is a global shortage of Pexion. In Australia, we have been advised that there is NO available Pexion stock.
You can read more about the global shortage from Boehringer Ingelheim here .
Until supply is resumed, it is critical that you speak with your vet about an alternative medication to Pexion.
We will continue to update this page with any further information we have about the expected restocking.
Understanding Epilepsy
Remarkably, humans and dogs have similar nervous systems, and this means that our beloved dogs can suffer many of the same neurological disorders that we do. Whilst vets can sometimes identify the cause of these disorders (trauma, congenital defect, autoimmune disorder, infection etc.), other times they are idiopathic disorders, meaning no cause can be found.
Epilepsy simply means “repeated seizures”. Your dog’s brain has a burst of excessive electrical activity, which causes the epileptic seizure.
It can be very distressing to watch your dog have a seizure or epileptic fit - or the seizure might be as mild as lip twitching on one side of Fido’s face. Your dog may collapse, move involuntarily, or lose consciousness.
You can learn more about epilepsy at www.dogswithepilepsy.com.au
What do I do when my dog is having a seizure or epileptic fit?
If your dog is having a seizure:
- As hard as it might be, it’s important for you to remain calm - your panic or upset won’t help, and your calmness may calm your dog as well.
- Your vet may have given you specific instructions - follow any advice that your vet has previously given you
- Your dog is not in pain, when they are having a seizure, even if they sound or act like it. He is not conscious and is not aware of what is happening. Neither animals nor humans swallow their tongue during a seizure - don’t ever try to grab a pet’s tongue whilst they are having a fit.
- Talk to your dog or cat softly, to reassure them. If you can, remove sensory stimuli - dim the lighting and reduce the noise in the room.
- Make sure the space around them is as safe and quiet as possible - block any stairs, remove items that they may get tangled in and if possible, cushion their head.
- Take a video. This may not be your first impulse, but video evidence can provide your vet with lots of information about the seizure.
- A seizure that lasts more than 5 minutes, or repeated seizures in 24 hours needs an immediate call to your vet.
Epilepsy can be managed!
Whilst there is no cure for epilepsy, especially idiopathic epilepsy (where no cause can be found), the great news for dog lovers is that it can be managed so you and your dog can live your best life together.
What is Pexion?
Pexion’s active ingredient is Imepitoin, which is an anti-epileptic and anti-anxiety medicine. As epilepsy is caused when there is excessive electrical activity in the brain, Pexion works by activating the receptors for the neuro-transmitter GABA, a substance that reduces electrical activity in the brain. It also works to (weakly) block calcium channels - normally, these channels or pores let calcium move into nerve cells, and allow electrical impulses between nerve cells - when this are blocked, excessive activity and seizures are controlled. The activation of the GABA neurotransmitter receptors also reduces fear and anxiety.
What can I expect when my dog starts on Pexion?
- Pexion starts to work within hours of the first dose. As most dogs only have a seizure every few weeks, you may not see it working immediately - and it may take a little time for your vet to work out the optimal dose of Pexion for your dog’s needs.
- Sadly, it is considered very unusual for a dog with epilepsy to become completely seizure free. Epilepsy medication aims to reduce the number of seizures, but cannot promise that the seizures will be completely eliminated.
- A major benefit of using Pexion to control seizures (compared to phenobarbitone based treatments) is that there are minimal side effects of sedation or unsteadiness. Talk to your vet if you see these side effects, as the dosage of Pexion may require adjusting.
- Your pet is likely to require medication to control their seizures for the rest of their life.
How to give Pexion to my dog?
Pexion comes in tablet form,and generally given twice per day. If possible, you should give the dose to your pet at approximately the same time each day. It can be given with or without food, although studies suggest superior absorption when given without food to fasted dogs (ie. give your dog the tablet, wait, then give the dog its meal).
What if I give too much Pexion? What if I miss a dose of Pexion or give the wrong dose of Pexion?
Administration of drug issuesWhilst it is important that you give your pet the correct dose at the correct time, if you miss giving a dose of Pexion, don’t worry - just give the normal dose next time. Don’t increase, or give a higher dose to “make up” a missed dose.
If your animal has taken too much Pexion, or you suspect an overdose, monitor your dog closely. Pexion has a high margin of safety in dogs, but if you are in any way concerned, call your vet.
Storage of Pexion
The manufacturer of Pexion recommends that it be stored at room temperature (below 30 degrees).
Who should NOT take Pexion?
- Dogs that are allergic/sensitive to imepitoin should not take Pexion
- Dogs with severely impaired hepatic (liver) function, severe renal or cardiovascular disorders should not take Pexion.
- Use by pregnant or lactating dogs should be assessed by a vet.
- There are many other drugs that will not work as well, if your pet is also taking Pexion. Also, there are drugs that cannot be taken with Pexion. For this reason, please make sure that you tell your vet about all other medications that your pet is taking, including vitamins, supplements and herbal therapies.
Can I buy Pexion online?
Pexion is a prescription medicine, and you can buy it online from PetScripts once you have a script (prescription) from your vet. Please ensure that you have read the How to Order page before ordering this item.
Disclaimer
This information is not intended nor is it implied to be a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice or any information contained on or in any product packaging or labels. Always seek the advice of your Veterinarian, Pharmacist, or qualified health provider when starting any new medical treatment, continuing with medical treatment or with any questions you may have regarding
- April 12, 2021
It is important to closely follow the instructions of your veterinarian. Some of the medications used to treat seizures and epilepsy. It can take time to find the right medication for your pet, and in some cases, management of your pet's epilepsy or seizures with medication may not be possible.
Here are some of the toxins that can cause seizures in pets
Toxins can cause seizures in cats.
- Permethrin - An ingredient in some flea, tick, scabies, and lice products for pets and people.
- Fluoroquinolone antibiotics - A family of antibiotics that includes ciprofloxacin, gemifloxacin, moxifloxacin, norfloxacin, and ofloxacin that is used to treat a variety
- March 30, 2021
Vets may prescribe Semintra to help your cat with hypertension (high blood pressure), or to reduce proteinuria (protein in the urine), particularly in cats with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
There is a strong link between cats suffering hypertension and chronic kidney disease. Up to 74% of cats with hypertension also have CKD, and up to 65% of cats diagnosed with chronic kidney disease also have hypertension.
Hypertension
When your cat’s heart pumps blood through the arteries, the blood puts pressure on the artery walls. High blood pressure (hypertension) means that the long-term force of the blood against the artery walls may cause health problems. It is a complex
