When to start treating Cushings- concerned about lysodren

[rokgerl]

Hi Everyone,

I am just wondering if anyone could shed some light on when we should actually start to treat cushings. We have an 8 year old beagle who was somewhat diagnosed with cushings about 1.5 years ago. Her lab results came back as borderline and so at the time, we decided to not treat anything as she seemed to be ok and showing no symptoms.

Anyway, I am noticing that she is getting more hungry and this worries me. She seems to be always wanting food...she even goes to the extent of scratching at the door to go outside and then running over to the cupboard where her food is. She will also whine at the cupboard (even though she is a beagle, she has never done this before). Tonight, I'm pretty sure she went outside and was eating feces (another first :(). Her water intake is as it always has been. So far, the only major symptom is her appetite.

My husband gets mad at me when I discuss this with him as he is very worried about the prognosis and the different treatments available....particularly the fact that lysodren (?) can be tough on them. I am of the other mind set that we should catch this early and get on it so that we can prolong her life.

At what point did any of you begin to actively treat your dog? Any input on this would be greatly appreciated!

[rokgerl]

Hi there,

I was just wondering if anyone has tried the less "lethal" drug to treat cushings (I can't recall the name) over lysodren? Has anyone found it to be effective?

Anyone's experiences would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Moderator's Note: I have merged your post concerning lysodren into your pup's original thread. We, normally, like to keep all posts on a pup limited to a single thread as it makes it easier for other members to refer to the pup's history when needed. I have also modified your title to indicate your concern about lysodren. If you would like a different title for your thread or the original title put back, please feel free to PM me or another staff member & we will be happy to make that change for you.

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi and welcome!

Strong and obvious symptoms are a huge part of making a Cushing diagnosis. These strong symptoms include but are not limited to; a ravenous appetite, excessive drinking and urinating, thin skin and usually symmetrical hair loss along the trunk.

A Cushing savvy vet will not initiate any treatment without strong symptoms and a proper diagnosis. Since other non-adrenal illnesses, such as diabetes and thyroid problems, share some of the same symptoms of Cushing's it can be one the most difficult diseases to get a confirmed diagnosis, plus not one test is 100% accurate at diagnosing Cushing's.

Could you get copies of all test/s that were done on your girl and post the results here with the reference ranges and units of measurements, we only need the abnormal results.

Is your girl on any medicines, herbs, or supplements? How much does she weigh?

Please know we will help in any way that we can so do not hesitate to ask any and all questions.

Love and hugs,
Lori

[Harley PoMMom]

The two drugs, Lysodren (Mitotane) and Vetoryl (Trilostane) are the medicines that are most rx'd when a Cushing diagnosis is confirmed.

IMO, either medication is safe when monitored appropriately and with owner observation and each med can have similar adverse effects. So "owner observation" is always a crucial component of treatment.

Each has it's pros and cons, they work differently, they are both safe when monitored appropriately, yet they both can have the same and serious risks and adverse effects.

One or the other may work better for an individual dog.

Another important consideration is the degree of experience your vet has with whatever treatment he/she chooses. Cushing's requires a good partnership with one's vet.

Cushing’s is a treatable disease. Delivery of competent and humane medical care by a skilled GP and/or specialist experienced in the diagnosis and management of Cushing’s has a significant impact on patient survival and well-being. With proper medical management, close monitoring and owner observation, most Cushingoid pets can live to their full life expectancy, with complete or partial resolution of clinical signs, and good quality of life!

Here is a handy link with info about Vetoryl/Trilostane: Trilostane/Vetoryl Information and Resources. (http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=185
)

Info about Lysodren: Lysodren loading Instructions and related tips. (http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=181)

Love and hugs,
Lori