Newly diagnosed. Jeffrey, Labrador cross aged 12

[Raindancer]

Jeff weighs 34kg. Newly diagnosed following ACTH test. Panting,weight gain,itchy, drinking lots of water, constantly hungry. Spindly,weak back legs, lethargic. Previously treated for arthritis with Metacam and also for skin problems on paws, repeat ear infections. He has lost some hearing and sight but still functions well. His thyroid function is a third of what it should be and he has elevated liver enzymes. Began treatment on 120 mgs of Vetoryl for 10 days. Blood test showed dosage too high so withdrawn treatment for a week. Will start again on Christmas Day on 60 mgs once a day. Thanks for adding me to the group. This will be a valuable resource for us. Trying to do the very best for our boy after this devastating diagnosis. I have already read several posts that say he should begin on the lowest dose? Not the high one....
We are in the UK and have a very caring,compassionate Vet.

[Harley PoMMom]

Hi and welcome to you and Jeff,

So sorry for the reasons that brought you here but glad you found us.

It is true that we see dogs do better when started at the lower end of the dosage spectrum. For Jeff's weight of 74.8 lbs, IMO, a starting dose of no higher than 60 mg should of be RX'd.

I was wondering if you could round up copies of all tests that were done on Jeff and post any abnormalities that are listed. Also could you post the results of any ACTH stim tests that were done.

Here's a handy link from our Resource Thread with info on Vetoryl/Trilostane: Trilostane/Vetoryl Information and Resources. (http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/showthread.php?t=185)

We are here to help in any we can so do not hesitate to ask any and all questions.

Love and hugs, Lori

[cheydogger]

Yes, 120 mg was too high of a starting dose. After speaking with Dechra several times and advice on here, we dropped my dogs dose to the 1mg/pound of body weight. With this dose, she is doing well so far after two weeks. Dechra's website is contradictory to what they say verbally. I hope the lower dose works better.

Ro

[molly muffin]

Stopping in to welcome you to the forum and wish you a merry christmas and safe and wonderful holiday.
Hope all goes well with the start of the dosing.

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Raindancer]

Thanks for the welcome and your replies. I have asked for all Jeff's test results and will post them as soon as I get them ( delayed for Christmas holidays ). He has begun the 60mg dose on Christmas morning. Is sleepy and less hungry. Feel he is maybe a little calmer. Returns for blood work on Jan 4. Just watching him anxiously for now.

[NoonelovesmelikeNorman]

Welcome to the group...Great place to find answers and understanding of cushings and help for the ones we love. Thinking of you and Jeffery!

Wishing you a wonderful New Year with a healthier Jeffery.

Sharon and Norman