The monthly shot for canine Addison’s disease is desoxycorticosterone pivalate (DOCP), commonly branded as Percorten-V® or Zycortal®. This mineralocorticoid replacement injection is typically administered every 25 to 30 days to manage electrolyte balance (sodium and potassium).

What injections are given for Addison's disease?

Treatment for adrenal crisis includes immediate IV injections of corticosteroids and large amounts of IV saline, a salt solution, with dextrose added. Dextrose is a type of sugar.

What is Addison's disease in puppies?

Addison's disease in dogs is typically caused by an autoimmune response where the dog's immune system attacks the adrenal glands. Other potential causes include infections, tumors, or certain medications that can impair adrenal gland function. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown.

How often is percorten injection?

Percorten-V is given under the skin (subcutaneously) or into the muscle (intramuscularly) every 20 to 30 days. Follow your veterinarian's directions.

What is the monthly injection for Addison's disease?

Treatment with Zycortal

Your dog will receive an injection of Zycortal from your veterinary surgeon, around once a month. Zycortal replaces the missing aldosterone, the hormone responsible for maintaining hydration and blood pressure.

Adrenal crisis: when to give an emergency injection

How long do you take steroids with Addison's disease?

If you take hydrocortisone tablets because your body cannot make enough cortisol (if you have Addison's disease, for example), you'll usually need to take them for the rest of your life.

What is the long term treatment for Addison's disease?

Treatment often starts with IV (intravenous) fluids and medicines called corticosteroids. You may take these medicines by mouth or by IV. You may have to take them for the rest of your life. You may also need to take other medicines (fludrocortisones).

What is the alternative to percorten?

This medication replaces the mineralocorticoid hormones only. Zycortal Suspension is an alternative to Percorten-V and requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

What not to feed a dog with Addison's disease?

Avoid low-protein diets unless your vet advises it for another medical condition (like kidney disease). Dogs with Addison's often have low sodium and high potassium levels. Their treatment usually addresses this, but it's wise to avoid low-sodium dog foods and consult your vet before adding supplements.

What drugs should be avoided with Addison's disease?

Diuretics and acetazolamide should be avoided unless clearly indicated. In 40% of people living with Addison's disease (autoimmune adrenalitis/primary adrenal insufficiency (see primary adrenal insufficiency, PAI) only the adrenal glands have ceased hormone production. More often, other glands are affected as well.

What shot is given to dogs with Addison's?

As the first FDA-approved treatment for canine Addison's disease*, Percorten-V continues to be a trusted solution that gives hope in the face of this challenging diagnosis.

Does Addison's affect the eyes?

Ocular Features: Virtually all patients have visual symptoms. Loss of acuity, hemianopia, visual agnosia, optic atrophy, and strabismus are the most common features. Neuropathy may cause a decrease in corneal sensation.

How fast does Addison's disease progress?

Addison's disease symptoms usually happen slowly, often over months. The disease may happen so slowly that people who have it might ignore the symptoms at first. Physical stress such as an illness or injury can make symptoms get worse fast.

Which is safer, Cytopoint or Apoquel?

In general, Cytopoint® has fewer potential for side effects than Apoquel®, and that is often a reason to select it as a first choice therapy. However, neither Cytopoint® nor Apoquel® are effective in every dog. Some dogs do not respond to either therapy, or respond initially and then stop responding eventually.

How long can a dog stay on Cytopoint?

A dog can stay on Cytopoint for extended periods, potentially lifelong, as it's given every 4 to 8 weeks as needed for itch relief, making it suitable for chronic allergies, but the decision and frequency depend on your dog's specific allergy triggers and flare-ups, with your vet determining the best schedule. It's considered safe for long-term use because it's broken down naturally by the body and doesn't burden the liver or kidneys like some drugs, but it's a management tool, not a cure, and continuous monitoring is key. 

Can you get better from Addison's disease?

There's currently no cure for Addison's disease, but there are medicines that can help manage the condition. If you have Addison's disease, your adrenal glands are not producing enough hormones, including types of hormones called steroids.

Can you fly with adrenal insufficiency?

Your team can provide a travel letter in case there are any issues with carrying the needles and syringes during travel. 6) Medical ID: If you do not already have one, it is a good idea to get a Medical ID that states “Adrenal Insufficiency — Steroid Dependent”.

How do I get my adrenal glands to work again?

To restore adrenal function, focus on stress management (sleep, mindfulness, gentle exercise), a nutrient-dense diet (less sugar/caffeine, more greens, healthy fats, Vitamin C, magnesium), and lifestyle changes like avoiding stimulants, staying hydrated, and regular movement, all while working with a doctor to address any underlying conditions, especially if a medical issue like adrenal insufficiency is present. 

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