Product Description

Studies have found that 62 percent of dogs between the ages of 11 and 16 have at least some symptoms of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). Sometimes called Doggie Alzheimer's, the symptoms of canine CDS are similar to those of human Alzheimer's patients: disorientation, confusion, memory loss, and changes in personality. Thankfully, there is hope.

Anipryl is an oral tablet that is highly effective in treating canine CDS. It works by boosting the dopamine levels in the brain. In fact, 70 percent of dogs with Canine CDS responded positively after a month of treatment. Anipryl is also used to treat conditions caused by an over-secreting pituitary gland. Anipryl works by suppressing the pituitary gland directly. This is a new and innovative approach to treating such conditions. It may take anywhere from one to three months of treatment before any positive results show.

It is easy to administer and does not require monitoring, since it does not inhibit the adrenal gland's function and will not cause adrenal toxicity or insufficiency. It can be given with food and is available in multiple dosage sizes.

Selegiline, the main ingredient in Anipryl can trigger certain side effects like vomiting, extreme bowel movements, increased thirst and urination, agitation, drowsiness, disorientation, lack of appetite, hair loss, etc.

A generic alternative to Anipryl is Selegiline.

Side Effects & Warnings

The most common side effects are mostly mild to moderate vomiting, diarrhea, diminished hearing, disorientation, loss of appetite, and hyperactivity, restlessness, or other behavioral changes.

Do not use the medicine for diseases that are not of pituitary origin and in animals that seem to be hypersensitive to selegiline. As the possible effects of Anipryl on pregnant or nursing animals have not yet been clinically proven, the use of medicine on such animals can be risky. Take extra care when given with insulin, phenytoin, sulfonamides, and phenothiazines, and in no way should the medicine be used with ephedrine. It will be always good to inform the veterinarian on the kinds of medications the pet is already taking so that adequate precautions can be taken. 

Ingredients

Selegiline Hydrochloride

Overview 

Selegiline Hydrochloride acts monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor. The drug is used for the canine cognitive dysfunction treatment among the pats and helps tackle Cushing’s disease. The dopamine levels of the brain increase by the action of this medication. The metabolization of the drug leads to methamphetamine, amphetamine, and L-desmethylselegiline. These together act as stimulants for the central nervous system.

Uses 

This medication is the only FDA-approved treatment available for nine cognitive dysfunctions. The onset of the actions of this medication can vary between 4 to 12 weeks, but most pets show improvement after a month of treatment. This condition can only improve with time. The medication’s neuroprotective effects lead to an increase in dopamine levels. However, it is worth mentioning that the drug does not cure can and cognitive dysfunction but can help in improving the quality of life under such a condition.

Special Precautions

If any accidental overdosing of this drug happens, it is crucial to inform a veterinarian and seek medication immediately.

Mechanism of Action

The old administration of the medication leads to a rapid release of the drug into saliva. An active pharmaceutical ingredient gets through the buccal mucosa. It helps to trigger the metabolism rapidly due to the fast-paced action. There are mild clinical benefits available from MAO inhibitors during the treatment. One of the byproducts of MAO catalyzed a mind oxidation reaction is hydrogen peroxide, and it can further convert reactive oxygen species leading to cytotoxic. It can ultimately impact reducing the oxidative stress of the animal. The antioxidant property is a critical neuroprotection mechanism that this medication helps provide.

Known Drug Interactions

Numerous drug interactions can happen with this medication. In the event of sighting such interactions, it is ideal to stop using the drugs for two weeks before giving selegiline. This period will serve as a good wash-off period and help avoid any aggravating drug interaction scenarios. 

The interactions can happen with the drugs like phenylpropanolamine, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, pseudoephedrine, tricyclic and tetracyclic anti-depressants, selective serotonin, etc.

Brand/Generic Equivalents

Anipryl

Anipryl is a medication for veterinary use in treating certain complications in dogs alone. The medication is found extremely effective in dealing with canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome as well as various Cushing’s diseases due to pituitary tumors in dogs. Selegiline Hydrochloride, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor is an active ingredient in the medicine that helps in controlling the clinical signs associated with the abovementioned complications in dogs. The medication is available only on prescription and is in the form of a tablet meant to be taken orally. 

Directions

For treating Cushing’s disease: An oral dose once a day for a two-month period; the dosage can be doubled for one month following this if the pet shows no response to the smaller amount.

For treating CDS: A smaller oral dose once a day for a one-month period; if there is no improvement, the dose may be doubled for one month. Beyond that, a veterinarian should be consulted to discover if another underlying problem is causing the dog’s symptoms.