Illustrated Articles
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Sertraline is given by mouth and is used off label to treat behavior disorders in dogs and cats. Common side effects include tiredness, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, anxiety, irritability, sleeplessness, shaking, tremors, itchy skin, or panting. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or other SSRIs, or pets that are using MAOIs, flea/tick collars, or cisapride. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Ophthalmic autologous serum is a blood-derived product used to treat corneal ulcers in animals. Ophthalmic autologous serum is part of the blood and is collected directly from the patient. It is in liquid form.
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Sildenafil is given by mouth or injection and is used off label to treat high blood pressure in the lungs or to treat megaesophagus. Give as directed. Side effects are uncommon but may include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, or skin redness in the groin area. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or pets that take nitrate medications. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinarian.
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Silver sulfadiazine topical is an antimicrobial used to treat skin infections and burns in cats, dogs, and exotic pets. It is used off label in veterinary medicine. Silver sulfadiazine topical comes in a topical cream.
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Slippery elm is given by mouth and is used over the counter to treat cough and stomach upset. Give as directed by your veterinarian. There are no known side effects. Do not use in pets that are allergic, pregnant, or nursing. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Sodium chloride (hypertonic) ophthalmic is a topical medication used to reduce surface (corneal) swelling of the eye in cats and dogs. Sodium chloride is available without a prescription but should only be used under the direction of a veterinarian. It may be used “off label” or “extra label” to treat eye conditions in animals other than cats or dogs. Sodium chloride (hypertonic) ophthalmic comes in ointment and liquid drop form. Avoid use in animals with corneal ulceration or dry eye.
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Sotalol is given by mouth or injection and is used off label in dogs and cats to treat abnormal heart rhythms. The most common side effect is tiredness. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it or that have asthma, heart block, slow heart rate, uncontrolled congestive heart failure, or shock. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Soy protein is given by mouth and is used over the counter to treat many conditions such as urinary incontinence, certain cancers, inflammation, obesity, and diabetes. Side effects may include gastrointestinal signs, or allergic reactions. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, or in pets that are pregnant or nursing. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
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Spinosad (brand name Comfortis®) is an antiparasitic used to kill adult fleas and to prevent and treat flea infestations in dogs and cats. It may be used off label (extra label) to treat other parasites and in other animals. It comes in an oral tablet form.
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Spironolactone is given by mouth and is used off label to treat congestive heart failure, fluid accumulation, and other cardiovascular problems. Common side effects include increased drinking and urinating, mild decreases in energy, mild electrolyte imbalances, or vomiting/diarrhea. Do not use in pets that are allergic to it, have elevated potassium levels, Addison’s disease, acute kidney failure, significant kidney disease, that are not urinating or that may be used for breeding. If a negative reaction occurs, please call your veterinary office.
